Gallery Chitrak is presently showcasing “In Search of Heritage: A Travel to Varendra,” a group exhibition featuring renowned artists from the country, led by Professor Emeritus Rafiqun Nabi. The exhibit is inspired by their recent exploration of the Varendra region in Chapainawabganj and its surroundings.
Special guests at the inauguration included Artist Prof Syed Abul Barq Alvi, Durjoy Bangladesh Foundation Chairperson Durjoy Rahman, DBL Group Vice Chairperson M A Rahim Feroz, and Pashmi Sweaters Limited Chairperson Md Mashiul Azam. The exhibition was jointly inaugurated by Rafiqun Nabi and his wife, Nazma Begum, on January 30, 2026.
Rafiqun Nabi, who hails from Chapainawabganj, grew up immersed in the beauty of the rural region, shaping his artistic vision. To reconnect with his roots, he led a group of artists on a creative journey through Varendra.
The participating artists, including Prof Syed Abul Barq Alvi, Mahfuzur Rahman, Rezaun Nabi, Ahmed Shamsuddoha, Sheikh Afzal, Nisar Hossain, Shishir Bhattacharjee, Muniruzzaman, and Shamsul Alam Innan, capture the essence of Varendra in their artwork.
The exhibition serves as a visual travelogue, showcasing the iron-rich soil, rural landscapes, architecture, and indigenous communities of Varendra. Prof Nabi’s artwork portrays local life, reminiscent of his illustrations in Bangla textbooks.
Ahmed Shamsuddoha’s realistic portrayal of a Santal man and pastoral scenes, along with Mahfuzur Rahman’s architectural studies, add depth to the exhibition. Prof Alvi’s abstract compositions, Rezaun Nabi’s rural depictions, and Sheikh Afzal’s vibrant Santal woman painting contribute to the diverse artistic narrative.
Shishir Bhattacharjee captures Santal culture, Nisar Hossain showcases Chapainawabganj’s mango abundance, Shamsul Alam Innan illustrates mango-picking traditions, and Muniruzzaman depicts Varendra’s landscape with muted tones.
The exhibition not only celebrates Varendra’s landscape and culture but also showcases the distinctive artistic styles of Bangladesh’s established artists. Visitors can experience this artistic journey at Gallery Chitrak until February 20, 2026.