Revolution in Cartoons: Exhibition captures the spirit of ‘36th of July’
At Drik Gallery, an ongoing cartoon exhibition is offering a compelling portrayal of the student-people movement that has shaped recent history.
Through an array of cartoons, installations, and video art, visitors are invited to experience the powerful visual narrative of this historic mass uprising.
The exhibition, titled "Cartoon e Bidroha" (Revolution in Cartoons), is a collaborative effort by the Bangladesh Cartoonist Association, Drik, and e-arki.
It is being held at Drik Gallery in Panthapath, Dhaka, from August 16 to August 31.
The works on display vividly depict the mass uprising of 2024, that began in late June and ended on August 5 the date protesters dub 'the 36th of July', a time when cartoons and memes emerged as potent tools of resistance.
Using sharp satire and bold imagery, these artworks captured the spirit of defiance and united the masses in a common cause.
Curator ASM Rezaur Rahman emphasised the historical significance of cartoons in mass movements, particularly in Bangladesh. He drew comparisons to the time of autocratic ruler Ershad when cartoonists used their art to critique and resist his regime.
Rezaur noted that under the previous government, censorship and a climate of fear nearly extinguished this art form, with only a few daring to express their views.
"The government imposed several restrictions on cartoonists, preventing any satirical depictions," Rahman explained. "But following the mass uprising, cartoonists, especially the younger generation, have bravely come forward to create works that criticize the former government, despite the lingering fear."
The exhibition features cartoons created over the past 30 days, reflecting the fervor of the student-people movement. Rahman highlighted the crucial role young cartoonists played in the movement, drawing satirical cartoons that challenged the misrule, mismanagement, and suppression of the previous government.
Photographer and Drik Founder Shahidul Alam spoke about the overwhelming response to the exhibition, noting that it was initially planned for a week but had to be extended until August 31 due to the large number of visitors eager to see the powerful works on display.
"Cartoons have a unique ability to convey freedom of speech, making them an immensely powerful medium," Shahidul said.
He also revealed plans to publish a book featuring these cartoons for presentation at the United Nations (UN) annual conference, aiming to share this artistic expression with an international audience.
Dr Fahmida Akhter, a Professor of Drama and Dramatics at Jahangirnagar University, reflected on the exhibition's theme, noting the use of red—a color symbolising revolution. She praised the cartoons for illustrating the power of youth in transforming the nation's political landscape through their anti-discrimination movement.
"These cartoons played a vital role in the movement, offering hope and inspiring change in our newly democratic country," Dr Akhter concluded.
Source: BSS
