Photographs as a Weapon

 Rafi Nur, Sajal Saik & Omar Abir

Inauguration Ceremony ,71 snaps photo exhibition, season 5 organized by Third Eye Photographic Society held at Drik Gallery, Dhanmondi, Dhaka, on 22 December, 2016. Ms. Sayeeda Khanom, first women photographer of Bangladesh was the chief guest and Anwar Hossain, veteran photographer and cinematographer, advisor of Third Eye Photographic Society and Chanchal Mahmood, freelancer, Sr. teacher & journalist, advisor of Third Eye Photographic Society were the special guest on the event.

From the left Chanchal Mahmood (special guest), Anwar Hossain (special guest), Ms. Sayeeda Khanom (chief guest), Syed Shakhawat Kamal (organizing head, Third Eye Photographic Society). Photo: Sajal Saik

While delivering a speech on photography in Bangladesh, Anwar Hossain said, “Photographers are the creator of color. They framed moments with their idea of creation”. He also added that “To raise against corruption photographs can be used as the best weapon”.

“Photography as a profession was not ever easy here in Bangladesh. But nowadays people are interested to introduce themselves as a photographer,” said Chancal Mahmood. And he ended his speech by inspiring the young photographers of Bangladesh, he said, “Photographers are the future. Soon they are going to represent our country to an international stage”.

Ms. Sayeeda Khanom launched the exhibiton by cutting the rope. photo: Sajal Saik

Ms. Sayeeda Khanom as the very first women photographer of Bangladesh put her speech on the progress of photography during this era. She said, “Being a women photographer was never respectful during that age”. She also shared her memories of 1971 during the liberation war of Bangladesh when she was living by photography.

“What is 71 snaps?” on this question, Syed Shakhawat Kamal, organizing head of Inauguration Ceremony program said, “71 snaps actually a group of 71 photographs of 71 different photographers". He also said that, “Every year we come with a new exhibition with new photographs. Many photographers from different countries participate in this competition”.

Mr. Kabir Hadi (participant of 71 snaps photography exhibition) from the right. photo: Rafi Nur

Mr. Kabir Haadi, one of the participant of Inauguration Ceremony said, “71 snaps photography exhibition gives photographers a big opportunity to express themselves with their new captures”. “Today, many photographers are getting famous by participating in different exhibitions,” he also added.

Edited by Rafi Nur