Dawn to Dusk: A Day of Capturing the Heritage of Cumilla

Anticipation filled the air as the UAP Photography Club, DSW, embarked on a captivating photo walk to Cumilla, driven by a passion to capture moments steeped in history. The adventure began early, with a departure from the campus at 7:30 am and 44 enthusiastic students ready to explore. Club president Taslimul Bari Turjo ensured a timely start, setting a smooth tone for the day. The presence of Afra Anan Saba, a respected faculty member from the Department of Architecture and club adviser, brought additional excitement and insight to the experience. Although traffic caused a minor delay, the lively energy remained high as students enjoyed snacks, music, and a joyful ambiance that made the journey unforgettable from the very start.

Upon arrival, the group enjoyed a delightful meal at the hotel ‘Pahareeka’, fueling everyone for the day ahead.
The first destination was Shalban Vihara, a peaceful archaeological site rich in history. Once a thriving educational and cultural center, Shalban Vihara presented endless photographic opportunities. From capturing the symmetry of its grid-like structure to the natural play of light over weathered stones, each shot told a story of ancient life and history. The serene atmosphere, combined with the intricate layout of the ruins, allowed for both wide-angle shots and close-ups, making it an ideal setting for architectural and abstract photography.

The next stop was the Nobo Shalban Vihara Monastery, a modern Buddhist sanctuary. The highlight here was a magnificent 30-foot-tall, 6-ton statue symbolizing peace and spirituality, providing a stunning focal point for photographers. The statue’s impressive scale and intricate details inspired creative angles, with opportunities for powerful portrait-style shots and wide frames capturing the surrounding temple architecture and serene ambiance.

The final destination was the War Cemetery, a quiet, reflective site honoring history and sacrifice. A particularly moving moment captured through conceptual photography was a child playing beside the gravestones, contrasting youth with the solemnity of the cemetery, evoking a sense of life’s continuity and the gentle passage of time. The students captured powerful images of this scene and the gravestones, using symmetry, depth, and natural light to convey reverence and remembrance.

During the return journey, the club members continued their lively conversations, games, and songs. Some students played the guitar, adding a musical touch that enriched the shared experience. By the time they arrived back, devices were filled not only with images but with memories of a day well spent, capturing fleeting moments of history, culture, and friendship.