Bangla Courtyard, Episode 1: Dhakai Muslin Story

Summary

The Bangla Courtyard -- Dhakai Muslin Story is a storytelling initiative within a creatively designed curated space to revive the heritage of the handwoven fabric made with the finest hand-spun yarns that were virtually wiped out in the colonial period of industrialisation. This special craft is being reinvented and revitalised in today's climate and with the untiring effort of new craftspersons, skills and knowledge. Bringing together wide-ranging expertise and interests, the courtyard style interactive panel comprised of interdisciplinary speakers alongside storytellers celebrate the versatility, economic freedom and self-reliance of Bangladesh's craft sector. Under the strong leadership of the honourable Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the Ministry of Textiles and Jute, scientists, artisans and entrepreneurs have come together to restore the great Muslin -- Bangladesh's hidden heritage, wealth and talent that will inspire the new generation of artists. The participatory series of events will aim to forge new and strong ties between the Bangladeshi diaspora and the country's vision for change through reviving its lost and endangered heritage.

Speakers

Welcome Notes:
Her Excellency Saida Muna Tasneem, High Commissioner of Bangladesh to the UK will be joined by Professor Adam Habib, Vice-Chancellor, SOAS.

Chief Guest: Speech by Honorable Minister Golam Dastagir Gazi, Ministry of Textiles and Jute (will join virtually)

Storytelling
Dr Sonia Ashmore, Design Historian (UK)
Saiful Islam, Lead, Muslin Revival Project, Bangladesh

Panel talks
Professor Edward Simpson, Director, South Asia Institute, SOAS
Ms Avalon Fotheringham, Curator, V&A, London, the UK, (Video Speech)
Dr Md. Monzur Hossain, Eminent Botanist, University of Rajshahi, Bangladesh, (Zoom Online)
Sarah Mahaffy, Textile Entrepreneur, London, the UK.
Rezia Wahid, Textile Artist and Designer, London, the UK.
Moderator of the Plenary: Saif Osmani, Artist and Trustee of Muslin Trust, London, The UK

Open Discussion : Hybrid format engaging online and participants present.

Vote of Thanks By Her Excellency Honorable High Commissioner, Saida Muna Tasneem

Refreshment: Traditional food

Registration

Click here to register

Organiser: SOAS South Asia Institute in partnership with the Bangladesh High Commission in London

Contact email: sg83@soas.ac.uk