Shibir’s TSC Exhibition Shaped Like Bangladesh’s Map?

The three-day program organized by the Dhaka University (DU) branch of Islami Chhatra Shibir at the Teacher-Student Centre (TSC) concludes today, Thursday, August 7, 2025. Marking the first anniversary of the “fall of fascism,” the photo exhibition’s layout, designed in the shape of Bangladesh’s map, has sparked widespread discussion on social media. While not immediately noticeable from the ground, drone footage revealed the creative setup, drawing both praise and criticism.

Hossain Ahmed Jobayer posted on Facebook, “It’s our country’s map! I didn’t notice despite walking by multiple times.” Abid Hasan commented, “Only drone shots make it clear. Saymum’s was similar.” Former DU student Anisur Rahman Jewel wrote, “I hadn’t noticed the map at TSC’s venue before. It’s interestingly creative.” However, some criticized the design choice.

The exhibition, running from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, features images of the July uprising, highlighting “atrocities of fascist Sheikh Hasina” under the theme “We Are 36 July: We Won’t Stop.” Alongside, discussions and other events are attracting crowds. Initially, the display included photos of convicted war criminals, including Jamaat-e-Islami leaders Motiur Rahman Nizami, Delawar Hossain Sayeedi, Ali Ahsan Mujahid, Mir Quasem Ali, and BNP leader Salahuddin Quader Chowdhury, prompting objections from leftist student groups. Following protests, DU authorities removed these images. They were replaced with posters featuring BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia’s statements on war crimes trials, references to the “Skype scandal,” comments by Geoffrey Robertson and Suranjan Bali, and alleged false witness testimonies.

The first day faced backlash from leftist student organizations over the war criminal photos, leading to their removal. The map-shaped layout, visible via drone, has since dominated online conversations, with mixed reactions to its symbolism.