United News of Bangladesh

The exclusive printmaking workshop, "On the Trail of Planography," conducted by the celebrated artist Sheikh Mohammad Rokonuzzaman, concluded successfully on Monday night at Cosmos Atelier-71 in Malibagh, Dhaka. The event was marked by the participation of eleven artists from varied backgrounds and presided over by key figures in the Bangladeshi art scene. The workshop, inaugurated on May 10 by renowned Bangladeshi entrepreneur, author, journalist and patron of the arts Enayetullah Khan, founder of Gallery Cosmos and Cosmos Atelier-71, with the presence of Tehmina Enayet, Director of Gallery Cosmos and Cosmos Atelier-71, and Nahar Khan, Executive Director of Gallery Cosmos and Cosmos Atelier-71, spotlighted the unique technique of lithography within planographic printmaking. Lithography, a pivotal technique, was explored in depth under the guidance of Rokonuzzaman, a former chair of the Department of Printmaking at Dhaka University. Notable attendees included veteran artist and freedom fighter Biren Shome, eminent artist-educator Professor Syed Abul Barq Alvi, internationally recognized artist Professor Rokeya Sultana, and famed photojournalist Nasir Ali Mamun. Ashmita Alam, chair of the Department of Printmaking at Dhaka University, also joined as a guest artist.  

Renowned artist Sheikh Mohammad Rokonuzzaman’s unique and interactive printmaking workshop titled ‘On the Trail of Planography’ is currently underway at Cosmos Atelier-71 in Dhaka’s Malibagh, showcasing the techniques of plate lithography in printmaking. The four-day exclusive planography workshop was inaugurated on Friday, May 10 by Enayetullah Khan, Chairman of Cosmos Foundation. The workshop features 11 artists from diverse backgrounds: Abu Kalam Shamsuddin, Boni Adam, Chitram Sen Anik, Iqbal Bahar Chy, K Zaman Shimul, Kamruzzoha, Palash Baran Biswas, Rezwanur Rahman, Rumana Rahman Rani, Salma Zakia Bristy and Sohanur Rahman. Tehmina Enayet, Director of Cosmos Atelier-71 and Gallery Cosmos, and Nahar Khan, Executive Director at Gallery Cosmos and Cosmos Foundation, were also present at the workshop’s inaugural ceremony. “Gallery Cosmos and Cosmos Atelier-71 were established through the guidance of the illustrious printmaker, the late Kalidas Karmakar - and ever since inception, we have provided patronage to a number of great artists, workshops, exhibitions, art events, and publications and more. We will continue supporting our talented art community through organizing meaningful events, publishing resourceful books and hosting enlightening workshops like this,” Enayetullah Khan said at the event. “The history of Lithography, a planographic printmaking process, dates back to 1798 - and from then to the current day, the world of art has seen revolutionary changes. As an artist and art educator, my aim is to familiarize this particular medium not only to the students but also to the public and general admirers; however, this is understandably a bit complex process and requires several additional art equipment. Gallery Cosmos is not only providing all the required support and elements but also helping us to popularise the medium through this workshop, joined by participants from diverse backgrounds. I wholeheartedly thank Gallery Cosmos and all of its associates for organizing this workshop,” Sheikh Mohammad Rokonuzzaman told UNB.

Gallery Cosmos, the artistic wing and printmaking studio of Cosmos Foundation, is set to host a unique Printmaking Workshop titled "On the Trail of Planography" at Cosmos Atelier71, Cosmos Centre in Malibagh, Dhaka, from May 10 to 13 (every day 10 am to 5 pm). Set to be inaugurated on Friday, the workshop will be conducted by internationally acclaimed artist-art educator Sheikh Mohammad Rokonuzzaman, with the participation of 11 Bangladeshi artists from diverse backgrounds. Additionally, young teachers and art educators from different universities will join the workshop. Eminent artist Rokeya Sultana, legendary photographer Nasir Ali Mamun, and art educator Ashmita Alam, Chairman of the Department of Printmaking, Faculty of Fine Arts at Dhaka University, will participate at the workshop as guest artists. The workshop will focus on exploring plate lithography techniques in printmaking. Participating artists are: Abu Kalam Shamsuddin, Boni Adam, Chitram Sen Anik, Iqbal Bahar Chy, K Zaman Shimul, Kamruzzoha, Palash Baran Biswas, Rezwanur Rahman, Rumana Rahman Rani, Salma Zakia Bristy and Sohanur Rahman. Currently a Professor of Printmaking at DU’s Faculty of Fine Arts, Sheikh Mohammad Rokonuzzaman was born in Dhaka in 1976. After completing his BFA from the Institute of Fine Arts’ Department of Printmaking, Dhaka University in 1998 (held in 2001), he received a Master’s degree in printmaking from Visva Bharati, Santiniketan, India in 2004 under the ICCR Scholarship by the Indian Government. He continued his artistic research at Tokyo University of Fine Art, Japan (2010 to 2012) under the Monbukagakusho Research Scholarship, courtesy of the Japanese Government, and completed his PhD from Dhaka University in 2017. Sheikh Mohammad Rokonuzzaman’s 1st Solo Exhibition was held at the Zainul Gallery, Dhaka University in 2005. Before that, his 1st open studio exhibition was held at Nandan Gallery (M.F.A Submission), Visva Bharati, Santiniketan, India, in 2004 - and his 2nd open studio exhibition was held at Gedai Gallery (Research Submission), Tokyo University of The Fine Art, Japan in 2012.  In his illustrious career, Sheikh Mohammad Rokonuzzaman has participated in numerous national and international exhibitions at home and abroad, including Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA)’s Young Artists Art Exhibition, National Art Exhibition, Asian Art Biennale; and many other exhibitions in Japan, India, Ukraine, Serbia, Taiwan, and Australia, to name a few.  Notable among the artist’s awards are the Diploma (3rd place) in the category “Small format graphics” in The First International Small Form Graphic Trienale & Exucubris, Planet for All, Ukraine, 2022; Honorable Award in International Art Fest 2021-22, (Microtopia), Bangladesh, arranged by Chittagong Art Club and Gallery Chitrak; E- Certificate Award Winner, GAWA Annual International Watercolor Online Contest-2019; Elizabeth Greenshields Award, Canada-2009, Best Award in Printmaking at the 16th (2008) and 15th (2004) Young Artists Art Exhibition, Organized by Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, and Best Award in Printmaking in Annual Art Exhibition, Institute of Fine Arts, Dhaka University (1998).  From 2019-2022, Sheikh Mohammad Rokonuzzaman acted as the Chairman of the Department of Printmaking. Faculty of Fine Arts at Dhaka University. He has participated in numerous national and international art workshops and also conducted a few of them, and his works are in the collection of many notable institutions and galleries including Dhaka University, Tokyo University of Fine Art in Japan, Visva Bharati in Santiniketan, India, Bangladesh National Museum, Bangladesh Bank, and Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, among others.

Marking the World Press Freedom Day 2024, Drik Picture Library organised an exclusive exhibition titled 'Gaza Holocaust: Killing the Truthtellers' and a panel discussion ‘Western Hypocrisy on Press Freedom’ on Sunday at the DrikPath Bhobon in the capital. Curated by ASM Rezaur Rahman, the exhibition pays tribute to the death of the truthtellers and displays protest against Israeli atrocities in Palestine. The inauguration was followed by a panel discussion where Meghna Guhathakurta, Executive Director of Research Initiatives, Bangladesh (RIB), Nurul Kabir, Editor of English daily New Age and Zahed Ur Rahman, scholar and political analyst spoke as the panelists, while the session was moderated by Shahidul Alam, Managing Director of Drik. Since October 7, 2023, the Israeli occupation force has killed thousands of Palestinian civilians, including women and children, turning Gaza and the West Bank into a war zone. Despite worldwide calls for a ceasefire, Israeli forces have reportedly killed 142 media persons in their line of duty, and the war has claimed the lives of more than 35,000 people, including over 34,000 Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank, and 1,200 deaths in Israel. Bibi Russell enchants Amman with 'Magical Threads of Bangladesh' fashion show Drik organized the exhibition and discussion when freedom is plundered and freedom of expression is gagged around the world, Shahidul Alam said, "Today's discussion revolves around activities of Western countries that talk about democracy. As we speak, many people are still dying. We have to digest a lot due to the hegemony of the West, but the topic today is which country is more peaceful.”

 International Disability Art Festival 2024, the culmination event of the British Council’s long-standing work in disability arts in Bangladesh, began at Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy on Friday. The event will end on April 27. The inauguration of the event was held at 3:00 pm, followed by an inclusive theatre performance, ’71 in Silence, to commemorate the liberation war. The festival included an exhibition titled’ Odommo Shilpotshob’(Indomitable Art Festival) which was Curated by IID, the exhibition featured diverse artwork spanning music, painting, sculpture, and more. Also there was theatre performances, panel discussions, film screenings, and a marketplace. The inaugural ceremony was attended by Dr Dipu Moni, Minister of Social Welfare, Government of Bangladesh; Matt Cannell, Deputy High Commissioner and Development Director, British High Commission in Bangladesh; Jenny Sealey, Artistic Director, Graeae Theatre Company; Shannon West, Director Bangladesh (interim), British Council; Nasiruddin Yousuff, Founder and Director, Dhaka Theatre; and Syeed Ahamed, Chief Executive Officer, Institute of Informatics and Development (IID). Naheed Ezaher Khan, State Minister of Cultural Affairs of Bangladesh, will attend the closing ceremony. International Disability Art Festival is part of the British Council’s project DARE (Disability Arts: Redefining Empowerment). DARE is a multilayer project aimed at developing the understanding and confidence among disabled people and the arts sector in Bangladesh. The project aims to bridge the gap between people with disabilities and the broader society. It was launched in 2019 in partnership with Dhaka Theatre and IID (Institute of Informatics and Development). On the first day, guests were invited to attend and watch five theatre productions: ’71 in Silence by Ramesh Meyyappan, ‘Circus Circus’ by Mostafiz Shahin, ‘Tribeni’ by Quazi Nawshaba Ahmed, ‘Kendro Borabor Shurongotir Naam Prithibi’ by Esha Yousuf and Rafiqul Islam, and ‘WASTELAND - A Journey’ by Sanjay Ganguly, director, Jana Sanskriti Centre for Theatre of the Oppressed, Kolkata. One panel discussion took place on the first day, titled ‘Disability Representation in the Art Sector’, which addressed the underrepresentation of people with disabilities in multiple spheres of society, including arts. On the concluding day, the rest of the five theatre productions will take place: ‘Otopor Karim Bawali’ by Shamim Sagar, ‘Shongoti’ by Samiun Jahan Dola, ‘Kajol Rekha’ by Al Zabir, ‘Pittrigon’ by Dr. Aamir Zaman, and ‘Shwapno Kahon’ by Ashim Das. Participants can attend two panel discussions: ‘Breaking Barriers for Accessible Arts’ and ‘Funding Inclusion for Disability Arts’. The ‘Breaking Barriers for Accessible Arts’ titled panel discussion will identify and address the barriers that people with disabilities face in accessing cultural and artistic opportunities. Dr. Dipu Moni said, “Although people with disabilities face various physical and mental challenges, most of them are not any less capable than others in terms of intelligence and creativity. In fact, in many cases, they are more creative than others if we can create opportunities for them. On behalf of the Government of Bangladesh, I would like to thank and congratulate the British Council, Dhaka Theatre, IID, and everyone involved in this unique event.” Matt Cannell, Deputy High Commissioner and Development Director, British High Commission in Bangladesh said, “The UK works across the globe to support people with disabilities and marginalised and under-represented groups exercise and enjoy their full rights and freedoms, on an equal basis. The British Council’s DARE (Disability Arts: Redefining Empowerment) project, and the festival, is a great opportunity for us to redouble our efforts to forge a more inclusive world and celebrate the talents and achievements of people living with disabilities here in Bangladesh.” Shannon West, Director Bangladesh (interim), British Council said, ‘We are extremely proud to inaugurate the International Disability Art Theatre Festival 2024 today, which is the culmination event of our longstanding work through project DARE. Since 2019 our DARE project has connected the UK and Bangladesh and supported building capacity for Bangladeshi theatre organisations and DARE artists nationwide, fostering inclusive practices, advocating for policy change, and ensuring accessibility for disabled artists at institutions like the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy. We thank all our partners and the Government of Bangladesh (GoB) for their positivity and support for mainstreaming disability art theatre in Bangladesh. Nasiruddin Yousuff, Founder of Dhaka Theatre, said, ‘Today we are proud to share that Dhaka Theatre has been a pivotal part of the journey of integrating disability art with the mainstream theatre in Bangladesh since 2013. Despite myriad challenges, each day presenting new hurdles, through unwavering dedication and collaborative synergy among disabled artists, trainers, the British Council, and the Dhaka Theatre team, remarkable strides have been made, and the International Disability Arts Festival 2024 is a testament to it.” The event allowed guests to immerse themselves in the world of disability art, gaining knowledge about the artists’ journey and the barriers they overcome.

Prominent Bangladeshi singer Rezwana Chowdhury Bannya received the prestigious Padma Shri Award from the Indian government on Monday (April 22, 2024). Indian President Droupadi Murmu presented the Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri Awards for the year 2024 at the Civil Investiture Ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. The Vice President of India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Union Minister, and other dignitaries were present. Read more: Sadi Mohammad laid to eternal rest at Mohammadpur Padma Awards, one of the highest civilian awards in India, are conferred in three categories, namely, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri.The awards are given in various disciplines and fields of activity, viz., art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, trade and industry, medicine, literature and education, sports, civil service, among others.

Amid the Eid festivity, Sunday morning marked the annual Pahela Baishakh cultural celebration held at Ramna Park in the capital by Chhayanaut, the country’s distinguished cultural institution, widely revered for celebrating the beginning of the Bengali New Year with its flagship festivity on April 14. Began at 6:15 am beneath the banyan tree at Ramna (Ramna Batamul) with a mesmerising flute performance of the "Raag Aheer Bhairav" tune by Mortuza Kabir Murad, the cultural festivity was followed by the performances of the country’s distinguished artists, captivating audiences with songs, recitations, and other performances. Pahela Baishakh marked by Mangal Shobhajatra The cultural event featured 31 performances, including 11 chorus-songs and 15 solos, with readings and recitals by renowned artists including Satyam Kumar Debnath, Khairul Anam Shakil, Chandana Majumder, Tania Mannan, Ramendu Majumder, Jayanta Chattopadhyay and others, shedding spotlights on the themes of nature, love for humanity, self-purification and patriotism. Audiences from every part of the capital gathered for the celebration, singing and dancing to welcome the new Bengali calendar year 1431 with good tidings. In the last part of the program, Chhayanaut’s Executive President Dr Sarwar Ali read out the New Year speech. The event came to its closure with a group rendition of the national anthem. Bangladesh Television and Bangladesh Betar live telecasted the 2:17 hours event, and Chhayanaut also streamed the festivity live on its YouTube channel and was also streaming the event at https://www.youtube.com/@ChhayanautDigitalPlatform. Strict security measures were put in place at the venue by the security enforcement unit of the government and the volunteers of the 13th Hussars Open Rover Scout Group, alongside Chhayanaut volunteers.

In celebration of Pahela Baishakh, the Bangla New Year, a vibrant Mangal Shobhajatra procession started from the Faculty of Fine Arts at Dhaka University on Sunday. The procession, a symbol of unity, cultural pride, and resilience, commenced its journey at 9:18 am on Sunday, captivating onlookers with its mesmerising display of traditional artistry and spirit. Led by enthusiastic participants, the Mangal Shobhajatra traversed through the bustling streets of Dhaka, weaving its way past iconic landmarks such as Shahbagh, Dhaka Club, and Shishu Park. Adorned in colourful costumes and wielding symbolic artifacts, the procession echoed the rich cultural heritage of Bangladesh while ushering in the new year with joyous fervor. The Faculty of Fine Arts, known for nurturing creativity and artistic expression, served as the perfect starting point for this spectacle of cultural significance. With its students and faculty at the forefront, the event exemplified the institution's commitment to promoting and preserving Bangladesh's diverse cultural tapestry.

The country’s largest Alpona festival, titled "Alponay Boishakh 1431," is all set to bring the essence of Bengali culture to life with vibrant strokes of colour and artistry, as the organisers announced on Monday that the artists are ready to infuse the streets with hues of the rich traditions of Bengal. Asiatic Experiential Marketing Limited, Banglalink Digital Communications Limited, and Berger Paints Bangladesh Limited will implement this collaborative initiative, marking the Pahela Baishakh festivity to welcome the forthcoming 1431 Bengali year. Pohela Boishakh: Mangal Shovajatra to be arranged with global perspectives in mind this year A press conference was held in A S Mahmud Seminar Hall, Daily Star Centre, on Monday, April 8, joined by Asiatic 3Sixty’s Group Managing Director Iresh Zaker; Chief Executive Officer of Asiatic EXP Mohammad Sayeem; renowned international artist Mohammad Moniruzzaman; artist Sheikh Maniruzzaman Liton; Banglalink Digital Communications Limited’s Chief Corporate and Regulatory Affairs Officer Taimur Rahman and Chief Legal Officer Jahrat Adib Chowdhury; Berger Paints Bangladesh Limited’s Chief Operating Officer and Director Md Mohsin Habib Chowdhury, and its Chief Marketing Officer, Tanzeen Ferdous Alam. Asiatic Experiential Marketing Limited hosted the annual Alponay Boishakh from 2012 to 2019, organising a cherished Alpona drawing celebration at Manik Mia Avenue in the capital and different locations nationwide to welcome the Bangla New Year. Art camp for special children held on Pohela Boishakh After a break due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the eighth edition of this grand celebration is back as Alponay Boishakh 1431, the organisers announced at the press conference. This year’s celebration is all set to spread the vibrant spirit of Boishakh across the country, with traditional Alpona to be drawn across three cities: Manik Mia Avenue, Dhaka; Shib Bari More, Khulna; and Mithamoin, Kishoreganj. The festivities will commence in Mithamoin, Kishoreganj, on April 12, 2024. The Alpona will start simultaneously at Shib Bari More in Khulna and Manik Mia Avenue in Dhaka the following day (April 13). This year, Alponay Boishakh 1431 is all set to make history with the attempt to set a world record with the world’s longest alpona, stretching a remarkable 14 kilometres from Mithamoin Zero Point to Austagram Zero Point, Kishoreganj, the organisers stated. The festivity in Dhaka will be graced by the Speaker of the National Parliament, Dr Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury, as the chief guest. Asaduzzaman Noor MP, Chairman, Asiatic 3Sixty; Sara Zaker, Co-Chairperson, Asiatic 3Sixty; Iresh Zaker, Group Managing Director, Asiatic 3Sixty; Rupali Chowdhury, Managing Director, Berger Paints Bangladesh Limited; Taimur Rahman, Chief Corporate and Regulatory Affairs Officer, Banglalink Digital Communications Limited; and artist Moniruzzaman will also be present at the site, along with other distinguished guests. Besides, high officials of Asiatic 3Sixty, Asiatic EXP, Berger Paints Bangladesh Limited, and Banglalink Digital Communications Limited will attend the events in Mithamoin and Khulna.

Eid-Ul-Fitr stands as a beacon of joy, marking the end of Ramadan with its festive spirit and the promise of cherished moments spent with family. As schools close and work pressures ease, families find themselves with a precious opportunity to reconnect, create, and celebrate together. This period of togetherness is not just about observing traditions, it's about making new memories that will be treasured for years to come. Below are ways to infuse creativity and joy into your family's Eid celebration, ensuring every moment is filled with warmth and delight. A guide to meaningful family bonding and fun during Eid-ul-Fitr Bonding over Eid delicacies: Inviting the whole family into the kitchen to prepare Eid specialties is a recipe for bonding. The act of cooking together, assigning tasks that suit each age group, and later savoring the dishes you've created side by side, turns meal preparation into a celebration of collective achievement and familial love. Festive home makeover with children:  Decorating your home for Eid with the help of your children not only beautifies your space but also kindles the creative spirit in your little ones. Encourage them to craft Eid-themed decorations, such as paper lanterns and homemade cards, transforming your home into a vibrant celebration of the festival's joy. Read more: Eid Shopping: Popular Bangladeshi Clothing Brands for Families Culinary adventures at children-friendly restaurants:  Eid is the perfect excuse to take a break from kitchen duties and indulge in the pleasure of dining out. Select restaurants that not only offer a diverse menu to cater to all tastes but also provide an engaging environment for children, such as play areas or interactive meal activities. This combination ensures a stress-free dining experience where the focus is on enjoying each other's company and making mealtime memorable. The beauty of henna: Gathering together for henna application is more than just a beauty ritual; it's a shared cultural experience that strengthens bonds. This tradition, rich in artistry and significance, becomes a cherished moment of connection and celebration among family members. Handcrafted Eid cards and gifts: Nurturing your children's creativity through the creation of handmade Eid cards and gifts for loved ones not only keeps them engaged but also teaches the value of thoughtful giving. This activity allows them to express their feelings through art, making the holiday more personal and meaningful. Read more: Sky-high Laughs with a Hint of Turbulence: 'Crew' starting Tabu, Kareena, Kriti Takes Off! The excitement of Eidi: The giving and receiving of Eidi encapsulate the essence of Eid's joy for children, offering a tangible connection to the festivities. This tradition not only brings smiles to their faces but also instills in them the values of generosity and gratitude. Picnicking under the open sky: Planning a family picnic combines the beauty of nature with the joy of togetherness. Selecting a picturesque spot where the kids can play and explore while the adults relax and chat is a simple yet profound way to celebrate Eid, surrounded by the beauty of the world. Rediscovering the joy of reading together:  Introducing children to the magic of stories is a gift that keeps on giving. Whether it's through the vibrant pages of picture books for the little ones or the compelling chapters of novels for the older kids, reading together opens up new worlds of imagination. A family trip to the library can become a treasure hunt, seeking out titles that will become the next bedtime favorites or spark lively discussions around the dinner table. Read more: Some Popular Bookstore and Reading Cafes in Dhaka