Century-old glimpses of hill life showcased at photography exhibition in Bandarban
Among the most striking photographs is a 116-year-old image from 1909, featuring the then British Governor of Bengal, Lancelot Hare, being received by the 12th Bomang King, Khajaipru Chowdhury, and his royal family during a state visit to the Chittagong Hill Tracts
A rare collection of photographs depicting the history, culture and daily life of the hill people of Bandarban over the past century is currently on display at a photography exhibition in the town's Rajar Math.
The four-day exhibition, which began on Tuesday (14 May), has been organised by Drik Gallery and features works by eight indigenous photographers from Bandarban.
The images include both archival photographs and contemporary captures, offering a visual timeline from 1909 to 2010.
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Renowned photographer and founder of Drik Gallery, Dr Shahidul Alam, inaugurated the event.
Since its opening, the exhibition has drawn large crowds, with visitors of all ages coming to experience the historic visuals of Bandarban's hill communities and their cultural heritage.
Among the most striking photographs is a 116-year-old image from 1909, featuring the then British Governor of Bengal, Lancelot Hare, being received by the 12th Bomang King, Khajaipru Chowdhury, and his royal family during a state visit to the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
The collection also includes a rare photograph of members of the Bomang royal family with Queen Elizabeth of England.
Other notable images on display include tax collection rituals from the 'Rajpunyah' festival, cultural performances by indigenous artists, and snapshots of traditional livelihoods and community life in the hills. More recent photos from the 1990s and 2000s offer a glimpse into the evolving lifestyle of the indigenous population through the lens of local photographers.
Photos from the 1960s show meetings between the 14th Bomang King, Mong Shei Prue Chowdhury, and foreign dignitaries. One such photo captures his courtesy meeting with the then Chinese Premier Liu Shaoqi, while another shows a meeting with the Sri Lankan ambassador during Mong Shei Prue's tenure as Health Minister.
The exhibition, which will continue until Saturday (17 May), is open daily from 11am to 9pm.
Visitors described the experience as deeply moving, with many expressing a sense of connection to their ancestry and pride in the visual history of their community.
