An important chapter of Bangladesh’s political history has come to life on Cox’s Bazar beach, set against the backdrop of rolling waves and salty sea air.
A two-day photo and documentary exhibition titled Life and Struggle of Begum Khaleda Zia has drawn widespread attention from tourists and local visitors alike.
The exhibition, focusing on nearly four decades of political struggle and the personal life of former prime minister and BNP chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, was organised at Sugandha Point on the beach by the Bogura Media and Cultural Society, Dhaka. The Cox’s Bazar event concluded the first round of the exhibition’s nationwide tour.
Displayed in rows of framed photographs on the sandy shore, the exhibition captures moments of courage, imprisonment and unwavering leadership. As the sun dipped into the sea, large numbers of tourists, local residents, and leaders and activists of the BNP and its affiliated organisations gathered to view the exhibition. With the steady presence of visitors, the seafront transformed into a quiet space of memory and tribute.
Organisers said that Begum Zia’s life symbolises an uncompromising struggle for democracy, and the exhibition aims to present an authentic account of her political journey, particularly for the younger generation.
The exhibition has already been held in eight divisional cities across 12 locations, including districts closely associated with Begum Zia’s life and political career.
In January, similar exhibitions were successfully organised at Zia Udyan and Justice Shahabuddin Park in the capital.
BNP national executive committee member for fisheries affairs and Cox’s Bazar-3 parliamentary aspirant Lutfor Rahman Kajal formally inaugurated the exhibition on Saturday night.
Speaking at the event, he said that Cox’s Bazar holds many memories linked to Begum Zia, and such initiatives would play a significant role in bringing her eventful life and political struggle closer to the people.
Much like the waves that repeatedly overcome obstacles before crashing onto the shore, visitors viewed Begum Zia’s life as an unforgettable story of resilience and return in the face of adversity.
Organisers said that, following the election period, the photo exhibition would be staged gradually in the remaining districts nationwide.
By Mohammad Morshed
Photo: Hussain Shetu
