The life and legacy of the father of the nation recollected in Canberra

Bangladesh High Commission in Canberra, as part of its celebration of Mujib Year, inaugurated a weeklong photo exhibition today on the life and legacy of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman at the Huw Davies Gallery, Manuka Arts Centre. 

The exhibition displays more than eighty-five photographs of Bangabandhu capturing Sheikh Mujib's childhood and family life, his emergence as the undisputed leader of the Bangalee nation, final phase of the struggle towards independence, and Bangabandhu's engagement with world leaders in the international arena. 

Videos on Bangabandhu were also screened in the gallery.

The inauguration was preceded by short remarks by a select number of distinguished guests. The speakers unequivocally appreciated the initiative for organising such an exhibition to disseminate the work of this great leader.

In his remarks, the High Commissioner Sufiur Rahman highlighted Bangabandhu's exceptional ability to represent his people's aspirations and to articulate their demand that made him unique and distinct from other leaders before and around him. 

He reflected on how Bangabandhu with his non-communal and inclusive politics was successful in uniting the Bangalee nation to protest against deprivation and exploitation and spearheaded them to freedom that created an independent Bangladesh. 

He also underscored Bangabandhu's quest for peace that remains a cornerstone of state policy for his able daughter Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina as she pursues peace and development.

The programme commenced with flying balloons in celebration of Mujib Year by carrying individually decorated characters of M U J I B Y E A R. Then the High Commissioner along with Australian dignitaries and leaders of political entities and study circles that promote and uphold ideals of Bangabandhu placed floral wreaths at his portrait. 

Following the Covid-19 related restrictions and social distancing rules, the outdoor inauguration program was attended by 100 guests including more than twenty ambassadors/ high commissioners, leader of the opposition of the ACT Legislative Assembly, Senior representatives of Australian Federal Departments, members of diplomatic corps, leaders of Bangabandhu study circles and Australia Awami League, diaspora members and high commission officials. 

Photo cards and booklets on Bangabandhu were distributed among the guests as mementoes.

The exhibition will remain open to visitors every day from 10 am to 4 pm until next Sunday, 13 September 2020.