Page 144 - Art and Crafts of Bangladesh

SCULPTURE 141

D. Reflection of the Liberation War in Post
Independence Sculptures and Monuments
Abu Md. Delwar Hossain

Sculptures on the War of Liberation are undoubtedly a new addition to the fine arts
following the Independence of Bangladesh. Sculptures have been used in representing
national pride, victories, royal or political power at different times and places across
the globe. The people of Bangladesh have also tried to make the memory of the
Liberation War indelible through sculptures on this glorious chapter of the country. 107
The most important and remarkable event in the history of Bangladesh and the Bengali
nation is the Liberation War of 1971. After Independence there has been a
comprehensive change in every sphere of life and this change is also observable in the
fine arts. Despite superstition, illiteracy and fanaticism, modern architecture and
sculpture of the country have progressed with a new enthusiasm during the Post
Liberation Period. Sculptures on the War of Liberation have advanced the sculptural
art of Bangladesh quite remarkably. Through large sized sculptures and architectures
on the theme of the War of Liberation, our artists have been able to break the shackles
of conservative norms and customs of society.
Sculptures and architectures on the War of Liberation were in most cases built to
uphold the Liberation War, mass killing, sacrifices and heroism of the Bengalis. In
addition to institutionally trained artists, some memorials and columns were built
through the enthusiasm of local freedom fighters, educational institutions and other
enterprising people. Though at the beginning, sculptures and architectures were
built at the universities, educational institutions and cantonments, nowadays
sculptures of different sizes are being built at different places of interest and
various establishments.
Sculptures of the Liberation War
Combining the qualities of permanence, evocativeness and possibilities there is no
other medium stronger than sculpture. Despite various efforts to manifest the spirit of
the Liberation War, sculptures in their monumentality most effectively uphold the
essence of the noble Liberation War.
The first sculpture on the Liberation War Freedom Fighter (fig. 2.50) was built by Abdur
Razzaque at the initiative of the Bangladesh Army on the island of the Chowrasta or
crossroad in Jaydevpur in 1972-73. Built on a 22ft high base, the 18ft sculpture shows a
freedom fighter about to throw a grenade with his right hand and holding a rifle in the
other. Around the base of the sculpture the names of 207 martyrs are inscribed. Discussing
the style of the sculpture, architect Rabiul Hussain states that it seems to lack movement.