Dhaka: Dhaka University today arranged the first-ever Shorot Utsab (Autumn Festival) as part of celebrating the seasons of the country and reviving an old tradition. The fest was arranged on the historic Bakultala premises of the fine arts faculty of the university this afternoon.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the event saw the participation of the Fine Art faculty, Dance department, Music department, Theater and Performance Studies department, Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU), and representatives from hall unions. Dhaka University and the Ministry of Cultural Affairs jointly organized the fest for the first time on the campus. The event venue was adorned with symbolic white heron, white cloud, and kashful, representing the thematic elements of the autumn season.
DU Vice Chancellor (acting) Prof. Sayema Haque Bidisha inaugurated the event. Present at the inauguration were Dr. Md. Abul Kalam Sarker, joint convener of DU Sada Dal, Chairman of Drawing and Painting department Dr. Mohammad Iqbal Ali, Chairman of Printmaking department Md. Nazir Hossain Khan, Proctor Saifuddin Ahmed, Law faculty dean Dr. Mohammad Towhidul Islam, and Arts faculty dean Prof. Mohammad Siddiqur Rahman Khan.
Different types of performances, including poem recitations, singing, and dance performances, were held during the six-hour fest. In her inaugural speech, Prof. Sayema emphasized the cultural and emotional significance of such events, stating that they create connections among people from different walks of life. She highlighted the importance of festivals in offering rare moments to reconnect with loved ones in today’s fast-paced urban life.
Following the occasion, paintings and artworks depicting the beauty of the autumn season were displayed at the premises. Speaking at the event, Dance department chairman Tamanna Rahman expressed that Bangladesh is graced with six seasons, with autumn being the prettiest and calmest. She shared the hope of celebrating all six seasons of the Bangla calendar regularly.
Prof. Kalam Sarkar also highlighted the necessity of arranging such events regularly and allocating funds for festivals that promote cultural flourishing. Proctor Saifuddin Ahmed noted the collaborative effort in organizing the event on short notice and expressed optimism about future support from the cultural ministry.
DUCSU cultural affairs secretary Mosaddeq Ali Ibne Mohammad thanked everyone involved and reaffirmed the union’s commitment to organizing events that foster connections among people from all walks of life.