A sixteen-day photography festival has commenced in Dhaka under the title “Chobi Mela.” The inauguration ceremony of the festival was held on January 16 at 4pm at the National Art Gallery Auditorium.

The chief adviser of the festival, Shahidul Alam, said: “Through this festival, questions have been raised regarding Western imperialism, aggression, occupation, and the dominance of power, both nationally and internationally.”

Festival Director ASM Rezaur Rahman remarked: “This year marks the 25th anniversary of Chobi Mela. As in previous editions, photographers, artists, teachers, and trainers from various countries are participating, offering valuable learning opportunities for Bangladeshi photographers and photography enthusiasts.”

The 11th edition of the festival is being held across five venues in Dhaka: the Bangladesh National Museum, Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, Alliance Française de Dhaka, DrikPath Bhaban, and the South Plaza of the Bangladesh National Parliament.

In this edition, under the conceptual theme “Re:”, a total of 58 participants from 18 countries across five continents have come together.

Alongside solo and group exhibitions, the festival features artist talks, panel discussions, and lectures. To further enrich the educational dimension of the event, six workshops have been arranged. Additionally, from January 25 to 29, an educational outreach program will be conducted involving local schools, with the participation of more than one thousand students.

Since the year 2000, the festival has been jointly organized by Drik Picture Library and Pathshala South Asian Media Institute.

The festival will conclude on January 31. The entire event is open to the general public.