The sculpture titled “Anjali Loh Mor” at the Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University in Trishal, Mymensingh, is being demolished. The university administration claims that the decision was taken in response to demands from the “majority of students.”
According to sources, the administration began dismantling the sculpture during the university’s vacation. The sculpture, inspired by the title of a song by the national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam, was inaugurated in January last year. It was installed on the bank of a pond between the Faculty of Science and Engineering and the old Faculty of Arts buildings. The beautification project, which included the sculpture, cost over Tk 4 crore.
While the administration cites student demand as the reason, several teachers and students claim the demolition decision was made following the political shift on August 5 last year, under the direction of the new university administration. Since then, a section of students has been opposing the demolition.
Speaking to The Times of Bangladesh, Acting Vice Chancellor and Treasurer Prof Dr Zainul Abedin Siddique said that although the demolition of the sculpture had begun, the process has currently been suspended. A new plan will be taken later as part of further beautification efforts.
He stated, “There were many objections regarding the sculpture. The ‘majority of students’ demanded its removal.”
The ‘Anjali Loh Mor’ sculpture was designed by artist Minindra Pal, drawing inspiration from Munmun Ahmed’s dance movements. Munmun expressed her dismay upon learning of the sculpture’s removal, stating that such actions reflect a disregard for art and culture. She questioned why national identity should be compromised for narrow political interests.
Artist Minindra Pal described the situation as akin to “deathly agony,” expressing deep sorrow over the destruction of his creation. He lamented that many of his sculptures have been dismantled, and this incident adds to his distress.
He also noted, “Most of the hundred-plus sculptures I’ve created have already been destroyed. Hearing news like this feels like enduring the pain of death.
The removal of the sculpture has sparked widespread criticism, with many viewing it as an attack on artistic expression and cultural heritage. The incident raises concerns about the preservation of artistic works in academic institutions and the influence of political changes on cultural initiatives.
Reacting to the news, Munmun Ahmed said, “I am deeply saddened by this incident.”
In a country where art and culture are suppressed, it becomes difficult to establish a truly beautiful nation,” she added. “The structure was aesthetically inspired by Nazrul’s music and carried no political or religious undertones.”
She questioned, “Why should the nation suffer for the sake of petty interests? If everything must be removed, what identity will we have left?”
“What is happening in the country, especially in a place like a university, is unimaginable. A nation’s level of civilization is directly tied to the richness of its culture. And this sculpture isn’t political,” he added.