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. Roots of Resistance
“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 exhibition title, from a British colonial term, refers to the practice of clearing land by hand for settlement.Visitors encounter handprints on clay circles, symbolizing a fading tradition, as they explore this historical reference. Cultural motifs and references to ‘Bonbibi,’ the guardian spirit of the forest, also feature prominently, highlighting her importance 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.
The figures, lit by a warm spotlight, create the illusion of rhinoceroses migrating through the forest in the late afternoon. The artist designs the arrangement to evoke nature’s calm atmosphere, reflecting an appreciation for the late afternoon light.
“Haat Katali” carries a powerful message: though the harm to the Sundarbans may be irreversible, we can still prevent further destruction. Through his artwork, Bishwajit Roy urges viewers to consider the balance of nature and the consequences of human interference. The exhibition is a tribute to the Sundarbans’ beauty and a call to protect this vital ecosystem for future generations.
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