An exhibition of collectibles in Chittagong

People have the general perception that leisurely pursuits like stamps and coin collecting are dying pursuits. This is far from reality, as the exhibition — Numismatic, Philatelic and Hobby-Item Exhibition2018 — organised by Chittagong Collector's Club between Thursday, 3 May and Saturday, 5 May at the Shilpacharya Zainul Abedin Gallery, Zilla Shilpakala Academy, Chittagong will show.

The Chittagong Collector's Club is an organisation that promotes collecting pursuits of all sorts, from stamps to coins, banknotes, medals awarded for gallantry at times of war and also peace, matchboxes, etc.  It may come as a surprise that each of the these hobbies have specific names — philately (the study of stamp), numismatics (the study of currency including coins, tokens, paper money, medals and related objects).

Children are fascinated with collecting objects, from stones to seashells to Pokémon cards. This exhibition will show how some collectors of Chittagong have carried their childhood obsession even in adulthood. From thousand year old coins, to stamps that helped gain victory in 1971 to everyday objects used by our tribal communities, this exhibition will show that when it comes to collecting, the options are endless.

As part of the exhibit, two sessions have been arranged where collectors can learn about stamp and coin collecting. Mohammed Monirul Islam, an accomplished stamp collector and exhibitor of international repute will explain how stamp collecting and exhibiting is done at the international level. The presentation will take place on Friday, 4 May between 6-7 PM.

Muhammed Shamsuddin, a researcher of coins, will speak on numismatics on Saturday, 5 May, between 6-6:45 PM. Both events are open for all.

While the main goal of the exhibition is to showcase the depth one can reach when it comes to collecting, the Chittagong Collector's Club works on nurturing such pursuits from an early age. They have arranged for free souvenirs to children attending the show. At a time when society is plagued with evils, and the children and youth being most susceptible to it, a collecting pursuit can not only help lead a trouble free life, but also provide endless pleasure for countless hours.

So if you can make time, do visit the show, and do not forget to take your entire family because as far as hobbies are concerned, there is something for everyone.

Essentials —

Location: Shilpacharya Zainul Abedin Gallery, Zilla Shilpakala Academy, Chittagong

Date:  3 – 5 May, 2018

Time: 3 PM to 5 PM (3 AM to 9 PM; (on Friday, 4 May, 2018  — 9 AM to 9 AM)