News Flash
DHAKA, Jan 16, 2025 (BSS)- Eleventh edition of the international photo exhibition 'Chobi Mela' has begun today at the different venues in Bangladesh.
The exhibition has been jointly organisations by Drik Photo Gallery and Pathshala with the support of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs.
Speaking at the event, the chief adviser of the event and Bangladeshi eminent photographer Shahidul Alam said the exhibition is not just a festival but a form of resistance and movement.
"It would be wrong to see Chobi Mela just as a festival. I see it as a movement. I see it as a resistance. I see it as an awakening," he said.
After a very difficult period following ouster of a dictator we are now looking forward for a Bangladesh that will truly be different, he said.
"We through our art, journalism and intellectual practice need to constantly be questioning what the powerful elite do,” he said urging constantly questioning those in power.
Mostofa Sarwar Farooki said the Chhobi Mela is probably the only international art event in Bangladesh that we can feel proud of.
Noting previous scenarios of photographic art and culture of the country, the adviser said, "Even a few days ago photography was not considered as a form of art but the interim government has tried a lot to develop the situation.
As part of this a dedicated Department for Photography has been opened at the country’s largest cultural hub Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, he said.
Farooki also emphasized on building a culture specially for those holding responsibility to have endurance and allowing opposing people to make things more inclusive.
Shilpakala Academy director general Rezauddin Stalin thanked all and expressed determination to nurture and cultivate art and culture.
The exhibition has been going on at different venues in the capital including Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, Drik Path Gallery, Bangladesh National Museum, National Parliament premises and Alias Farcies.
The art exhibition featured picture of struggle and stories of the people from the different walks of life. The festival will remain open for the public till January 31.
