An extraordinary art exhibition titled “Alo” (Light), showcasing the aftermath of recent arson assaults on newspaper establishments, commenced at 11:00 am today. The exhibition skillfully reinterprets devastation as a poignant reflection on endurance and strength.
Held within the fire-damaged premises of Prothom Alo at Karwan Bazar in Dhaka, the exhibition repurposes remnants from the events of December 18, 2025. Curated by renowned artist Mahbubur Rahman, the showcase converts the fire-scarred setting at Karwan Bazar into a compelling visual narrative.
Visitors are confronted with burnt books, melted computer monitors, and charred newsroom remnants artfully reassembled as artifacts, portraying both the extent of the destruction and the unwavering determination to persist in publishing. The display features video installations, sculptural pieces, and recorded accounts from staff who experienced the arson and assault.
Open to the public daily from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm until February 28, the exhibition attracted members of the Editors’ Council, the Newspaper Owners’ Association of Bangladesh, media practitioners, artists, writers, and business figures.
Prothom Alo Executive Editor Sajjad Sharif moderated the event, where Prothom Alo Editor Matiur Rahman emphasized the need for unity within the journalism community to combat future threats. Referring to the newspaper’s motto, “Truth is Courage,” he highlighted the importance of factual reporting as a powerful defense.
Rahman expressed concerns about longstanding divisions among journalists and urged solidarity across ideological differences. He stressed the newspaper’s commitment to supporting any journalist or media entity facing adversity, regardless of their viewpoints.
The Daily Star Editor and Publisher Mahfuz Anam called on the new government to conduct a thorough investigation into the arson attacks, suggesting a premeditated nature behind the assault. He recounted the harrowing ordeal faced by staff trapped during the attack, praising their dedication to journalism.
Anam denounced the arson as an assault not just on physical structures but on the fundamental principles of intellectual freedom and independent journalism. NOAB President AK Azad advocated for solidarity among publishers, editors, and journalists to resist future suppression attempts.
Dewan Hanif Mahmud, editor of Bonik Barta and general secretary of the Editors’ Council, condemned the burning of newspaper offices as a severe indictment on society. Hasan Hafiz, president of the Jatiya Press Club, criticized the previous administration for failing to protect media institutions during a tumultuous political transition.
Kader Gani Chowdhury, secretary general of the Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists, emphasized the inseparability of media freedom and democracy, highlighting the resilience of media outlets like The Daily Star and Prothom Alo despite the attacks.
The coordinated attacks on The Daily Star and Prothom Alo offices on December 18 last year were described by media leaders as a deliberate effort to intimidate independent journalism. The assailants also targeted Chhayanaut, a prominent cultural institution in the country.
