The Alliance Française de Dhaka (AFD), in collaboration with travel magazine Vromon and the Jute Diversification Promotion Center (JDPC) PLC under the Ministry of Textiles and Jute, has launched ‘The Soul of Jute’, an immersive exhibition celebrating Bangladesh’s golden fibre through design, craftsmanship, and sustainable innovation.
The three-day showcase opened on Monday at La Galerie, Alliance Française de Dhaka, drawing visitors into a world where jute’s cultural heritage and modern creative possibilities meet.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Adviser at the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, as the Chief Guest. She was joined by Sheikh Bashir Uddin, Adviser at the Ministry of Textiles and Jute; Bilquis Jahan Rimi, Secretary of the same ministry; and Md Jahid Hossain, Managing Director of JDPC PLC, as Special Guests.
Their presence underscored the government’s emphasis on promoting jute as a national resource with global potential; and the organisers described ‘The Soul of Jute’ as a celebration of craftsmanship, cultural identity, and tourism potential.
The exhibition invites visitors to observe how jute connects communities and creative industries, showcasing both traditional handwoven works and contemporary jute-based innovations. The versatility of the material is presented through designs that reflect the ingenuity of local artisans as well as the forward-looking vision of modern designers.
Bangladesh’s jute products and crafts continue to hold a strong position in local and international markets, contributing meaningfully to the economy while supporting several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The sector promotes sustainable livelihoods, empowers rural artisans, and fuels eco-friendly innovation aligned with the country’s commitment to a greener future.
Through its displays, the exhibition brings these achievements into focus, celebrating Bangladesh’s heritage and its evolving approach to sustainability.
‘The Soul of Jute’ will run from November 17 to 19 at La Galerie, Alliance Française de Dhaka, located at 26 Mirpur Road, Dhanmondi. Visitors can explore the exhibition from Monday to Saturday between 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
