Major contribution to photography in Bangladesh
Drik's educational wing Pathshala-South Asian Media Academy (formerly Pathshala-South Asian Institute of Photography) celebrated its 12th anniversary amid much festivity at its premises on Panthapath in the city on May 13. Pathshala Principal Dr. Shahidul Alam led a rally on the occasion.
Noted art enthusiast and Italian Ambassador to Bangladesh Giorgio Guglielmino graced the occasion as the chief guest. Professor Nazrul Islam, former chairman of University Grants Commission, was a special guest at the event. Dr. Shahidul Alam presided over the programme.
Aside from speeches by the guests, Vice Principal of Pathshala Abir Abdullah and a student of Pathshala's first batch, Munira Morshed Munni, spoke on the occasion.
The guests also gave away certificates to the 10th batch students who have recently graduated from the school. From this year, Pathshala is giving away a special award in photography. Administrative manager Joseph Rozario received the honour for his decade-long contribution to the school.
Later, the guests unveiled a book titled "Under the Banyan Tree". The book contains 15 works by students (former and current) of Pathshala.
Theatre troupe Prachyanat's Musical Ensemble performed "Phool, Pakhi O Nodi'r Gaan" (music of flowers, birds and rivers) at the programme. Members of the troupe rendered popular songs from its major productions -- "Koinya," "Circus Circus" and "A Man for All Seasons."
The performance included songs "Dekha Diona Kachhey Niona", "Jhilmil Jhilmil", "Phul Gachhti Lagaichhilam", "Shyam Ongey Rai Ongo", "Pakhi Uira Jao Rey", "Gulabi Gulabi" and "Bakul Phul".
Pathshala had begun its journey as part of a three-year World Press Photo educational initiative on December 18, 1998. The school has played a pivotal role in changing the social attitude towards photography as a profession in the last era. Offering basic and advanced level courses in this field, the institution also offers diploma and Bachelor equivalent courses to students. The school is also a part of the upcoming regional Master's programme at universities in Bangladesh, China, Indonesia, Nepal, Norway and Pakistan.
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