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One of Asia’s largest Photography Festivals held biennially in Bangladesh, the ‘Chobi Mela’ is a must in Dhaka. The 11th edition of the Chobi Mela is all set to happen in 2025 after commencing from 2000. The festival is an initiative by independent media organisation – Dirk Picture Library founded by photographer Shahidul Alam.
Each year, the Chobi Mela is curated around a specific theme and essentially hosts exhibitions, workshops, lectures, and occasionally film screenings. From circulating mobile exhibitions around the city in cycle-rickshaws or vans to attract the attention of lay audiences, the exhibition is a unique experience.
While the exhibitions are scattered across the country, some of the main exhibitions are usually hosted at major cultural venues including the Goethe Institut, Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, the Russian Cultural Centre and the Bangladesh National Museum.
From 2017, the festival also started workshops and fellowship programs, in which fellows are commissioned to present region specific photographs and installations in Dhaka.
Chobi Mela 2025 – Theme, Date and Details
- This year, the theme for Chobi Mela 2025 is set to be ‘Re’ – symbolizing collective imagination, revival, and a renewed vision for the future.
Announcing the theme, the official statement, very close to the values and beliefs of the Bangladesh society, the organisers have stated, “‘Re’ – Now, more than half a year after Bangladesh rose up in people’s revolt, we’ve realised a transformative possibility that resonates with the phonetic sound of ‘Re’. ‘Re’ symbolises collective imagination and the revival of dormant hopes. We envision ‘rebuilding’ when disruptions signal new beginnings. We also imagine ‘regeneration’ of a primordial future world, environmental healing, and rejuvenation. More so, in response to human disturbances, we aim to restore damaged ecosystems, increase biodiversity, and enhance nature’s ‘resilience’, and to remain defiant in the face of adversity. The eleventh edition ‘re-imagines’ the euphony of ‘Re’.”
- The Chobi Mela 2025 is set to happen from 21 November to 5 December, 2025 in the capital city of Dhaka, Bangladesh.
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