Liberation War sculptures at Rajshahi University lie neglected

Rajshahi University's (RU) sculptures, which were built in the memory of the Liberation War, lie neglected, weather-worn, and have been losing their splendor due to poor maintenance and preservation.

Paint has worn off the statues as parts of the several structures remain broken. Some were left untended for years-gradually losing their aesthetics. Without timely repairs, painting, or cleaning, some are now nearly unrecognisable.

Students alleged administrative negligence is responsible for the poor condition of these monuments.

SHABASH BANGLADESH - located on the south side of the Senate Building, this Liberation War memorial was crafted by artist Nitun Kundu. Built with red soil in 1991, the piece reflects the indomitable spirit of the Bangali people.

BIDYARG - erected in 2011 in memory of martyred mathematics teacher Habibur Rahman, this sculpture symbolises the triumph of knowledge over arms. Two freedom fighters stand tall-one holding a gun and the other a pen, the latter raised higher to signify the power of education.

SPHULINGA (Spark) - built in 2012 by sculptor Kanak Kumar Pathak in memory of martyr Dr. Shamsuzzoha, the sculpture shows a slain teacher against a symbolic wall representing the flying national flag.

BODDHOBHUMI (RU killing field) - situated near Shaheed Shamsuzzoha Hall, this monument preserves the memory of thousands brutally killed in 1971. Its broken bricks and dark stains symbolically represent the wounds and bloodshed of the Liberation War.

Zubayer Hossain Rahul, a student of Mass Communication and Journalism, said "RU is not just an institution, it is our pride and the carrier of our history. These sculptures embody our Liberation War, our struggles, and our culture. Neglecting them means losing not just artworks but losing our emotions, our traditions, and the lessons we must pass on to future generations."

Echoing this, Rafsan Alam, an Anthropology student, said, "These sculptures are not just pieces of art but living witnesses of our history. Renovating them is not only an aesthetic necessity but also a moral duty to preserve our heritage for future generations."

Without urgent steps for preservation, however, Rajshahi University risks losing not just sculptures, but invaluable chapters of its own history.

Professor Dr. Saleh Hasan Naqib, said, "I believe these sculptures are important milestones, as they remind us of our history while also pointing us toward our responsibilities for the future. That is why they hold great significance to me. When a nation forgets its history, it loses its way. I think these monuments should remain before the eyes of our students so they can remember the past and shape their future accordingly."

He said the university regularly undertake renovation works and they are making efforts to restore the sculptures which require urgent attention. "We are committed to preserving these historic monuments."

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