Bangladesh Bhavana a Symbol of Cultural Ties

Last Updated on July 14, 2018 by Bharat Saini

Introduction:
In a historic ceremony on May 25, 2018, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina jointly inaugurated Bangladesh Bhavana at Visva Bharati University in Santiniketan, West Bengal. This cultural complex, spanning 44,261 square feet, stands as a symbol of the rich cultural ties and historical connections between India and Bangladesh.

Communion of Cultures
Subtitle: A Symbolic Inauguration
Bangladesh Bhavana represents not just a physical structure but a celebration of the shared cultural heritage between India and Bangladesh. The inauguration marked a symbolic moment, emphasizing the cultural communion that unites the two nations.

Reverence to Rabindranath Tagore
Subtitle: Shared Icon of Harmony
Both Prime Ministers acknowledged Rabindranath Tagore as a cultural luminary who binds the two countries together. Modi emphasized Tagore’s role as a “shared heritage,” asserting that this legacy remained undivided by historical events.

Prime Minister as Acharya
Subtitle: Modi as Chancellor of Visva Bharati
Narendra Modi’s position as the Acharya, or Chancellor, of Visva Bharati University adds a unique institutional dimension to the cultural ties. This connection reinforces the commitment to fostering cultural understanding through the academic realm.

Shared Anthem and Beyond
Subtitle: Tagore’s Enduring Legacy
The acknowledgment of both countries sharing Tagore’s creations in their national anthems is not merely a historical footnote but an ongoing testament to Tagore’s enduring influence. The leaders reiterated that Tagore’s legacy transcends anthems, encapsulating a shared cultural ethos.

Diplomatic Bonds and Landmark Achievements
Subtitle: Strengthening Bilateral Relations
Modi highlighted recent diplomatic achievements, including the resolution of the land boundary issue and various connectivity projects. These milestones are seen as integral components of a “golden period” in India-Bangladesh relations.

Architecture and Functionality of Bangladesh Bhavana
Subtitle: A Blend of Aesthetics and Purpose
Constructed by the National Building Construction Corporation on 119,609 square feet of land donated by Visva-Bharati, Bangladesh Bhavana is a two-story building with modern amenities. It features an auditorium, library, cafeteria, and two seminar halls, serving as a multifunctional cultural hub.

Bangladesh Jadughar – Tracing Bangladesh’s Heritage
Subtitle: A Museum of Cultural Riches
The Bangladesh Jadughar within Bangladesh Bhavana offers an immersive journey through Bangladesh’s history and culture. Graphic and interior designer Tarik Sujat and architect Ehsan Khan from Bangladesh have meticulously designed and decorated this space.

• Wooden Replica of Tagore’s Houseboat: A captivating exhibit that brings to life an integral part of Tagore’s personal history.
• Ancient Coins: Displaying coins recovered from Uari Bateshwar in Bangladesh, dating back 2500 years, provides a tangible link to the region’s archaeological richness.
• Terracotta Work and Handmade Dolls: Traditional art forms showcasing the craftsmanship and artistic diversity of Bangladesh.
• Musical Instruments: The exhibit includes Ektara and Dugdugi, adding a sonic dimension to the cultural narrative.
• Pictorial Descriptions: Tracing Bangladesh’s history from Partition to the Liberation War, creating an informative visual timeline.
• Digital Displays and Audio-Visual Kiosks: Modern technology meets tradition to educate the younger generation about Bangladesh’s cultural tapestry.

Tagore’s Personal Artifacts
Subtitle: Intimate Glimpses into Tagore’s Life
The museum proudly displays personal artifacts from Tagore’s life, including a kerosene lamp, a covered bowl, and a salt-pot from the Tagore family’s house in Shahjadpur, Bangladesh. Additionally, silver coins featuring Tagore issued by the Central Bank of Bangladesh add a numismatic dimension to the exhibit.

Conclusion:
Bangladesh Bhavana serves not only as a physical structure but as a living testament to the enduring ties and shared history between India and Bangladesh. Through its architectural grandeur, rich exhibits, and commitment to cultural understanding, it stands as a cultural bridge, connecting the past, present, and future of these two nations.