Alex Mason :
The weeklong solo photography exhibition “Echoes of Peace” by acclaimed Bangladeshi photographer Muhammad Mostafigur Rahman came to a close in New York, leaving audiences deeply inspired by its message of harmony and humanity. Organized to commemorate the International Day of Peace, the exhibition was hosted at the Save the People USA Auditorium of the Peace Center on Hillside Avenue, Jamaica.
Featuring 40 striking photographs, Rahman’s work captured the breathtaking landscapes, cultural vibrancy, rural life, and interfaith harmony of Bangladesh. The images, while visually captivating, carried a deeper resonance—depicting the resilience of human spirit and the enduring pursuit of peace. Visitors described the collection as both thought-provoking and uplifting, a visual reminder of the power of art to transcend borders.
At the closing ceremony on Friday evening, distinguished leaders and cultural figures shared their reflections. Dr. Toshikazu Kenjitsu Nakagaki, UN Interfaith Leader and President of the Heiwa Peace and Reconciliation Foundation of New York, praised the exhibition, noting, “These photographs are not only about aesthetics; they deliver powerful messages of peace, humanity, and harmony.”
Dr. Mahatapa Palit, Director of the Sri Chinmoy Oneness Center, echoed similar sentiments, reminding the audience that division lies at the root of global unrest. “Yet we are all children of the same Earth. Coming together is our responsibility, and these photographs echo that very call for unity,” she said.
The event drew a diverse range of speakers, including climate change expert Richike Lipikouiz, filmmaker and peace activist Dima Nefartiti, news presenter Sadia Khandkar, photographer and researcher Dr. Obaidullah Mamun, cultural personality Tahrina Parvir Preeti, and photographer Sajid Hossain. Rahman’s wife, Kazi Jebun Nahar, also shared heartfelt words on the impact of his work.
In his concluding remarks, Mostafigur Rahman expressed gratitude to the organizations that made the exhibition possible, including Save the People USA, the United Nations Association of the USA – Queens Chapter, the Peace Center of USA, the Interfaith Center of USA, and the GNRC.
The final day transformed the venue into a vibrant gathering place for expatriate Bangladeshis, photographers, and art enthusiasts, underscoring the exhibition’s role in both cultural diplomacy and community building. The closing ceremony was moderated by Dr. Muhammad Shahidullah, CEO of Save the People USA, who emphasized the importance of using art to foster peace.
As organizers and attendees reflected on the success of “Echoes of Peace,” many expressed hope that the exhibition would not only elevate Bangladesh’s image on the international stage but also contribute meaningfully to spreading the universal message of peace and unity worldwide.
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