Two of the five large motifs being prepared for the "Borshoboron Anondo Shobhajatra" were damaged in a fire at the Faculty of Fine Arts, University of Dhaka on Saturday.
One motif, titled “Face of Fascism,” was completely destroyed, while the other—symbolizing the dove of peace—was partially damaged.
According to university authorities, the fire broke out between 4:45-5am. Sources suggest the blaze originated near the "Face of Fascism" motif.
Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts Azharul Islam Sheikh, confirmed the incident, saying that the fire started early in the morning and damaged two of the motifs.
DU Proctor Saifuddin Ahmed mentioned that the fire likely started while members of the mobile security team were away offering Fajr prayers.
On Saturday morning, the Faculty of Fine Arts announced in a notice that a general diary had been filed with Shahbagh police station.
The university has also decided to form an investigation committee to look into the incident.
This year’s Bengali New Year theme, “Symphony of the New Year, End of Fascism,” was intended to reflect the spirit of the July–August mass uprising.
The central motif, “Face of Fascism,” stood 20 feet tall and featured a woman’s face with bared teeth, crafted from bamboo and cane.
The structure included four upright horns, a wide-open mouth, a large nose, and two fearful eyes. Many interpreted it as a caricature of ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina.
Other large motifs planned for the procession include a wooden tiger, a hilsha fish, peace doves, a palanquin, Mugdho’s water bottle, and a slice of watermelon—meant to express solidarity with Palestine against Israel’s mass killings.
