By Sabrina Khan (Dhaka Bureau)
The monsoon sky, the rhythmic melody of rain, and the aesthetic grace of dance came alive at the historic Bakultala of the Faculty of Fine Arts, University of Dhaka. Stepping beyond the urban stereotypes of waterlogging and traffic congestion, the exceptional dance program ‘Ghonoghota 2′ was organized to celebrate the timeless cultural beauty of the monsoon and to spread a message of humanity.
The 90-minute vibrant event, organized by the ‘Orthee Ahmed Dance Academy’ in collaboration with the Faculty of Fine Arts, commenced at 11:00 AM on Friday (July 17). Around three hundred dancers, ranging in age from 3 to 70 years, participated in the performance.
‘Ghonoghota 2’ at Charukala’s Bakultala: A message of humanity through dance. Photo: Collected.
A Blend of Culture and Humanity
This year’s ‘Ghonoghota 2’ was not just a cultural festival; it transformed into a profound social and humanitarian initiative. The artists chose this platform to stand in solidarity with the people affected by the recent flash floods in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
Two mobile booths by the JAAGO Foundation were set up at the venue, where attendees spontaneously contributed financial aid for the flood victims. Furthermore, members of the Orthee Ahmed Dance Academy announced that they would be making personal donations to the fund as well.
‘After the recent floods, we felt that such a disaster could not be ignored. As artists, we have a profound responsibility toward society. Therefore, alongside celebrating the monsoon, we are making this humble effort to stand by the flood-affected people’- Orthee Ahmed, Ekushey Padak-winning dancer and choreographer.
Reviving the Spirit of Monsoon in Urban Life
For centuries, the monsoon has been deeply intertwined with Bengali culture and heritage. However, in modern urban life, its essence has largely faded. Regarding this, choreographer Orthee Ahmed stated, ‘In urban life, the monsoon has now become merely synonymous with waterlogging and traffic jams for many. Yet, in our culture, the monsoon has always been a celebration. Our goal is to bring that cultural consciousness back to the forefront for the new generation.’
The artists are not preoccupied with how large the collected fund will be. Their primary objective is not to remain indifferent during times of crisis. According to the organizers, staying complacent during a disaster is never an option, and artists have always been the first to respond to societal crises.
‘Ghonoghota 2’ set a unique example by blending the invocation of nature, cultural practice, and service to humanity. This harmony between the rhythm of the silver rain and human compassion deeply inspired the vast audience in attendance.
##########
The Writer:
Sabrina Khan: Staff Correspondent, Pressenza- Dhaka Bureau.
