The terrace slowly filled with people, with members of different indigenous communities and Bengalis alike. A white wooden shed displayed the main artworks of the exhibition, while the rest of the walls were lined with photographs capturing indigenous life and culture. In front of a hand-painted banner promising a day of art, poetry, music, and discussions, the event “Culture for Identity: From Soil to Soul” began.
The stage was decorated with peacocks and butterflies, and amidst these colourful presences were the talented students of Kanon, a specialised institution of the Autism Welfare Foundation (AWF), with their vibrant mediums of artistic expression.
To have passed by the Shontrash Birodhi Raju Sharokh Bhashkorjo (Anti Terrorism Raju Memorial Sculpture) one day and to then have stood before its maker the next, was a surreal experience. The moment felt extraordinary, yet, the man I stood before made the the interaction remarkably humble. To me, speaking with sculptor Shyamal Chowdhury equalled reconnecting with an old friend — as though he was back in the art scene after years and was describing art like it were the essence of his existence.
Once the attendees were let in, the hall was barely half-filled. Overlooking the big red curtains of the stage, a mother cat and kitten duo playfully wandered around the auditorium for an unscheduled and whimsical first act of the show. Who could have predicted that the hall full of audience would surge to the front, midway through the show, transforming the seated concert into a captivating celebration?
With each artist contributing two paintings, the exhibition features 108 artworks spread across the well-lit gallery. While there is no singular theme, the collection underscores the intricacy and versatility of watercolour as a medium. Encompassing diverse subjects—from the seasons of Bangladesh to urban vignettes, rural landscapes, the July uprising, and abstract compositions—the exhibition offers a broad spectrum of artistic expressions.
It’s almost impossible not to talk about Chandler Bing when talking about Matthew Perry when the man behind the character himself said, "It wasn't that I thought I could play Chandler; I was Chandler."
Art has always played a significant role in Bangladesh, from moving songs during the Liberation War to modern-day political art. Emphasising this historical context alongside the influence of today’s artists, ‘Day 2’ featured the second dialogue, titled “Artists Leading Paths: Artists in Policymaking.”
“Hatirpool Sessions” began its journey four years ago, offering a perfect blend of simplicity and depth. Its lyrics have given voice to unspoken emotions, connecting with everyday experiences. Now, collaborating with around 25 different artistes—both new and seasoned—the platform is just days away from unveiling its much-awaited third season.
Gendering dance is a widespread practice, and classical dance is one of the main victims. While spectators wait to see women dance to soft and graceful moves in the field of dancing, men need to be rough and tough.
As the third season of Demon Slayer drew to an end wrapping up the Swordsmith Village arc, Ufotable wasted no time in announcing a fourth season by releasing an official teaser trailer.
There are numerous indigenous languages at the risk of becoming extinct. ‘“Bornomala” was conceived with the aim to preserve all these languages and capture their beauty in the form of art.
Preparations underway for celebrating Pahela Baishakh with grandeur
Yesterday evening was about Kathak, one of the eight forms of classical dancing known for its sophisticated footwork and graceful hand gestures or Mudras. Around 300 dancers graced the stage in perfect synchrony and symphony to the beats of the tabla and flute.
DU Film Society recently organised an open dialogue titled, ‘Jukti Tokko Goppo’
“The budget for our film was a mere 680 taka. In one room, and in two days, my first directorial ‘Anger’ was made, and here we are.” Showrov Kamal Chowdhury said to the crowd before the screenings began. It was the 7th day of the Dhaka International Film Festival and the evening was about the screening of 7 short films, under the segment ‘Bangladesh Panorama’.
What does one normally expect from an exhibition? Intricate pieces of framed art, curious art connoisseurs quietly observing the pieces? Strangely enough, as I walked into the houseful gallery, I found everyone singing out loud to legendary rock songs of the late great Ayub Bachchu.
In a congregation of a diverse range of genres under the same evening sky, that is how Moheener Ghoraguli’s 1977 classic came alive on Thursday, in the TSC swimming pool area of the University of Dhaka—with psychedelic tunes tessellated through folk melodies.
Baatighar Theatre’s “Himur Kolpito Diary” was performed on Tuesday evening in the Studio Theatre Hall of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy.
