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.
In the dimly lit gallery, decorated with revolutionary-themed art, Anusheh Anadil spoke about love and revolution. A circle of people gathered to discuss the changes they hoped to see in post-revolution Bangladesh. Outside, raindrops tapped gently, while the sound of the Tanpura filled the air. A cat, wearing a blue bandana, wandered through the audience during the inaugural session of the two-week-long festival “Re-love-ution” or “Premandolon” at Jatra Biroti in Banani.
“We have our own mother tongue, our own music, and a culture we dearly cherish. Why should we call ourselves by anything other than our own identity?” asked Henri Clara Tripura who came in the early hours of the morning wearing her traditional Tripuri dress to celebrate the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples 2022.
A modern fairytale with a touch of mythology, “Hawa” has taken the country by storm, with its mysterious trailer and mesmerising songs. Yesterday, the promotional activities of “Hawa” reached Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) in the form of a press conference, followed by a concert.
This Eid saw many Bangladeshi actresses taking on roles that aren’t traditionally associated with women in the industry. Challenging the contemporary idea that women are simply compliant partners or pretty ladies—for the male lead to pursue—many actresses stepped up and took on roles that told the stories of strong and empowered female characters. With female protagonists, Sabila Nur, Tanjin Tisha, and Mehazabien Chowdhury graced our screens during this Eid, bringing forward some fresh and unique storylines that featured strong women in the lead roles. Bewlo is a list of female-centric Eid films that everyone should check out:
An initiative of TransEnd, a handicrafts fair was held on Friday afternoon, aiming to empower the marginalised transgender, hijra and gender-diverse community of Bangladesh.
An initiative of TransEnd, a handicrafts fair, was held on Friday afternoon, aiming to empower the marginalised transgender, hijra and gender-diverse community of Bangladesh.
