The exhibition “Haat Katali” was held at Alliance Française de Dhaka, located at 4, Road 24, Gulshan-1, Dhaka. It ran until January 7, from 3 PM to 9 PM. The exhibition masterfully blends history, culture, and nature, with artist Bishwajit Roy using a mix of materials such as clay, ceramics, and wood to bring attention to the beauty of the Sundarbans while highlighting the ongoing destruction of the forest due to deforestation.
“Haat Katali” serves as a protest against the environmental damage occurring in the Sundarbans, one of the world’s largest and most vital mangrove forests, as viewed through the lens of cultural history.
The title of the exhibition is derived from a term used during the British colonial era, referring to the practice where people were encouraged to clear land by hand for settlement. This historical reference is explored throughout the exhibition, with visitors encountering handprints on clay circles, symbolizing a fading tradition. The exhibition also features cultural motifs and references to “Bonbibi,” the guardian spirit of the forest, who is a key figure in local folklore.
One of the most striking pieces in the exhibition is a pool of dirt placed in the center of the gallery, surrounded by small sculptures of rhinoceroses.
These figures, illuminated by a warm spotlight, create the illusion of a herd of rhinoceroses migrating through the forest during the late afternoon. The arrangement is carefully designed to evoke the calm and peaceful atmosphere of nature at that time, reflecting the artist’s deep appreciation for the light of the late afternoon.
The art in “Haat Katali” carries a powerful message: while it may be impossible to reverse the harm already done to the Sundarbans, there is still time to prevent further destruction. Through his evocative artwork, Bishwajit Roy urges viewers to consider the delicate balance of nature and the long-term consequences of human interference. The exhibition serves as both a tribute to the natural beauty of the Sundarbans and a passionate call to take action to protect this vital ecosystem for future generations.
