Tribute to July uprising: Drone show lights up Dhaka's sky
In the early evening, with only the full moon casting its gentle glow across the Dhaka sky, the darkness was soon swept away by a breathtaking display -- 2,600 drones lighting up the skyline in a mesmerising show.
In 12 vivid motifs, the July uprising came alive, tracing the heroism of Abu Sayed and the stirring role of women in the movement.
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To mark Pahela Baishakh, the Bangla New Year celebrated by all communities and ethnic groups in Bangladesh, the Shilpakala Academy staged this event at Manik Mia Avenue in the capital.
The celebration, held under the patronage of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, was made possible with technical assistance from the Chinese Embassy in Dhaka, and in collaboration with the National Parliament and Dhaka North City Corporation.
A drone show and an open-air concert stood as the centrepiece of the festivities.
The evening began with music, setting the mood for celebration. The Basic Guitar Learning School from Bandarban opened the concert, followed by the band F Minor from the Garo community.
All participating artistes joined in a choral rendition of the classic anthem "Esho He Boishakh," invoking a sense of renewal and unity.
Mithun Chakra delivered two solo performances, while folk artiste Islamuddin Palakar captivated the audience with a traditional pala, including the stirring piece "Deora."
Rakib and Sagor Dewan performed a series of duets and solos, with Rakib also appearing in two duets alongside Arz Ali Ustad. Atia Anisha performed three solo numbers, including the evocative "Cholo Niralay."
Ahmed Hasan Sunny brought emotion to the night with renditions of "Majhe Majhe Tumi Ele," "Manush Keno Erokom," and "Golpo Na."
Parsha offered three songs, one of which paid tribute to the July movement, while the band Ashes closed the musical segment with a live band performance.
At exactly 7:00pm, eyes turned skyward as the highly anticipated drone show began. Jointly organised by the governments of Bangladesh and China, the 14-minute spectacle unfolded in luminous synchrony above the capital.
Each of the 12 motifs told a story -- beginning with a tribute to the martyrs of the July uprising, and moving through scenes of liberation, fearless resistance, and national pride. Themes of women's empowerment, cultural heritage, and Bangladesh's enduring friendship with China illuminated the night sky.
One motif extended a powerful gesture of solidarity with the Palestinian people in their struggle for freedom.
Behind this stunning visual narrative stood a team of 13 expert Chinese drone pilots, who orchestrated every movement with precision.
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