The streets of Jamalkhan turned into a poignant reflection of resistance and resilience as Failed Camera Stories hosted a video exhibition, titled “Revolt and Sorrow of July,” chronicling the harrowing events of the July-August people’s uprising on Friday evening.
Against the backdrop of a projector screen, the struggles and sacrifices of countless individuals were brought to life, drawing an emotional crowd to the sidewalk.
The atmosphere was heavy with emotion as viewers of all ages gathered to watch the curated footage of protests, violence, and resistance. Tears welled up in the eyes of many, while others, recalling the haunting memories of student-led movements against the Awami League and law enforcement brutality, chanted slogans in defiance.
The July Uprising, a month-long movement demanding justice and an end to oppressive governance, witnessed the tragic loss of nearly 2,000 lives, including students like Abu Sayed, rickshaw puller Manik Mia, and child victim Riya Gop. Thousands more were left injured, with many suffering permanent disabilities. Social media played a pivotal role in the movement, amplifying protest visuals and galvanising public outrage against a regime accused of violence and suppression.
Curated by Failed Camera Stories, the exhibition opened with a wrenching clip showing the shooting of martyr Abu Sayed in Rangpur. As the night unfolded, scenes of peaceful protests, brutal police assaults, and the relentless spirit of the demonstrators flashed across the screen. Key moments, such as the blood-streaked faces of students and the chant of “Quota or Merit?” evoked strong reactions from the audience, reigniting memories of both pain and pride.
Videos of police shooting unarmed students and the attacks carried out by Awami League affiliates, including the Chhatra League and Jubo League, left many recoiling in shock. These moments were juxtaposed with the resilience of protesters, whose bravery became a symbol of hope amidst turmoil. Additionally, documentaries produced by BTV Chattogram added further layers to the narrative, offering historical context and insight.
Saeed Khan Shagor, director of Failed Camera Stories and a member of the Search Committee under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, underscored the event’s significance. “After the July Uprising, the fascist regime was overthrown on August 5. Yet, merely removing the dictatorship is not enough. We must ensure that such atrocities are never repeated. Exhibitions like this are a call to remember and to remain vigilant,” he said, pledging continued efforts to preserve the uprising’s legacy.
Dignitaries such as Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner Mizanur Rahman and Chattogram District Council CEO Shabbir Iqbal attended the event. Iqbal remarked that the uprising would serve as a cornerstone for Bangladesh’s cultural and political evolution.
The evening also featured speeches from activists and organisers, including Abu Nasir Alif, Islam Jishad, Kazi Rakib, and Saifullah Nadim. Their words resonated with attendees, many of whom shared personal reflections.
The exhibition, which lasted nearly three hours, left a lasting impression on attendees. It stood as a powerful tribute to those who paid the ultimate price for justice and freedom, while serving as a stark reminder of the cost of complacency in the face of oppression.
