An exhibition featuring representations of mass graves is being showcased at the Bijoy Mela in Cox’s Bazar as part of an initiative to present the history of the Liberation War to the younger generation.
Organised by the Fair Celebration Committee, the exhibition has drawn intense interest from visitors of all ages, from children to young adults.
The five-day fair began on Wednesday (December 17) at the Shaheed Daulat Maidan of Cox’s Bazar Public Library. The mass grave representation has been installed under the banyan tree area of the fairgrounds, highlighting the locations and identities of several mass graves across Cox’s Bazar district.
Sourav Deb, organiser of the fair committee and general secretary of Udichi, Cox’s Bazar district unit, said the exhibition is an essential step in familiarising the new generation with history.
“Through this display, young people are learning about the genocide carried out during the Liberation War and the reality of mass graves,” he said.
He also alleged that access to a mass grave near a girls’ madrasa in the Baharchhara area of Cox’s Bazar has been blocked, calling the situation deeply condemnable.
He demanded immediate public access to the site and proper preservation of other mass graves in the district.
The installation art was created by artist Jiyanta Raju, who said his aim was to present the haunting memory of mass graves to the younger generation.
He clarified that the artwork aims to mirror historical narratives detailing the scattering of victims’ bodies at these sites during the war.
Afzara Riya, a visitor, expressed that the exhibition provided her with a deeper understanding of the Liberation War, particularly in light of the limited opportunities to learn about history that are available nowadays. “It is truly a commendable initiative,” she added.
Another visitor, Atoshi Sharma, said she had little prior knowledge about mass graves. After viewing the exhibition, she learned that these sites are collective burial grounds of those killed during the Liberation War, which sparked her interest in learning more about history.
Imran Hossain Imu, a playwright and director, stated that attempts are currently underway to distort or obscure the history of the Liberation War.
“This exhibition presents the true history. Even when we are gone, mass graves will remain as witnesses to history. That is why preserving them is critical,” he said.
By Abdu Rashid Manik
Photo: Abdu Rashid Manik
