The Earth360° Festival kicked off on Saturday at Bishwo Shahitto Kendro in Dhaka with a colorful display of art, activism, and environmental advocacy. This yearly celebration, which is well-known for its creative method of bringing environmental issues to the public's attention, got underway with a flurry of interesting talks and activities.
Distinguished guests, including James Gardiner from the U.S. Embassy in Dhaka and Shamir Shehab, founder of the Bangladesh Youth Environmental Initiative (BYEI), graced the opening ceremony with their presence. Their support underscored the global importance of addressing environmental challenges through collaborative efforts.
The festival's theme, "Rivers and Riverine Lives," took center stage, highlighting the vital role of Bangladesh's waterways and the communities that depend on them. Through captivating mediums such as photography exhibitions, digital art showcases, and film screenings, attendees were transported into the heart of riverine life, fostering a deeper appreciation for these precious natural resources.
A highlight of the day was the inaugural Earth360 dialogue titled 'Artists with Conscience,' which featured luminaries such as cartoonist Ahsan Habib, artist Wakilur Rahman, and political cartoonist Mehedi Haque. Their insights into the power of art to drive social and environmental change resonated deeply with the audience, sparking meaningful conversations and inspiring action.
Organized by the Bangladesh Youth Environmental Initiative in partnership with the U.S. Embassy in Dhaka, the festival attracted over 12,00 submissions across various categories, showcasing the immense creativity and passion of artists and activists alike. Esteemed jury members, including Catherina Masud, Abir Abdullah, Ahsan Habib, and Sabyasachi Mistry, carefully selected the best submissions for the exhibition, ensuring a diverse and thought-provoking showcase of talent.
As the festival continues its four-day journey, attendees can look forward to a plethora of engaging events, including a drawing competition for schoolchildren, and a special screening of the acclaimed film 'Shunte Ki Pao! Are you listening!' by director Kamar Ahmad Simon and insightful dialogues led by influential figures such as architect Marina Tabassum and environmental lawyer Syeda Rizwana Hasan.
The Earth360° Festival stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration in the fight for environmental sustainability. With its blend of creativity, education, and activism, it serves as a reminder of the power of collective action in shaping a brighter future for our planet.