Bangladesh ArchSummit 2025 Begins Alongside the IAB Build Expo 2025
The Institute of Architects Bangladesh (IAB) inaugurated the Bangladesh ArchSummit 2025 today, December 11. This year’s theme, “Crafting Space, Shaping Habitat,” sets the stage for a grand celebration of architecture, education, profession and practice, ideas, innovation, and excellence. Running in parallel with the Summit, IAB also launched the IAB Build Expo 2025, the country’s largest exhibition of building materials and construction innovations. Both events will continue until December 13 at the Bangladesh China Friendship Conference Centre (BCFCC).
Bangladesh: Asia’s Next Trade Powerhouse
Bangladesh is quietly rewriting its economic story. Once known primarily for its ready-made garments, the country is now emerging as a diversified trade hub in Asia. Its export basket is expanding—and so is its global relevance. Earnings from exports have always been the nation’s driving force, and the last fiscal year was no different. Apparels played a dominant role, earning $48 billion, while other sectors also expanded their global reach. “Bangladesh’s export basket did not widen overnight—it
Energy Crisis Pushes Ceramic Industry to the Brink
Bangladesh’s ceramic industry is facing one of its toughest periods in decades, as soaring gas prices and unstable energy supply strain production and profitability. Between 2015 and 2023, gas prices in the manufacturing sector surged by about 345 percent, including a 150 percent hike in 2023 alone. This escalation has raised production costs by 18-20 percent, since gas serves as both a key energy source and raw material. Yet, producers cannot freely increase prices due to competition from
A Carnival of Crafts and Community
Dhaka’s winter evenings are about to take on a new glow as Aarong ushers in the return of its Winter Wonderland, an immersive showcase where rural women’s artistry meets festive joy, turning December nights into a living tapestry of culture and creativity. Now in its second season, the month‑long festival is more than a carnival—it is a crafted journey into Bangladesh’s artisan heritage, blending music, food, games, and storytelling with the warmth of community celebration. The event stretches across two vibrant spaces, each designed to immerse visitors in the story of Bangladeshi craftsmanship. At the Tejgaon Outlet Parking Lot, glowing gates open into a world of artisan stalls, DIY craft corners, food kiosks, and the aarong.com experience zone. Here, the main stage sets the rhythm for music and performance, while every stall tells a tale of the rural women whose hands weave, carve, and print the designs that define Aarong. Terracotta Tales, meanwhile, offers a different flavour of festivity. Families will find carnival games, a dedicated children’s zone, and a curated menu of seasonal treats. Unlike the Tejgaon site, this space welcomes visitors without registration, ensuring the carnival atmosphere flows freely between both venues. The experience is designed to be more than entertainment. Every purchase, every photograph taken, and every beat enjoyed feeds back into the lives of the artisans who make Aarong possible. It is a circle of value, where celebration meets empowerment. Late-night shopping adds another layer to the festivities. On event days, the Tejgaon outlet extends its hours until 11pm, inviting guests to browse curated collections that reflect the warmth and colour of the season. Entry to the Tejgaon grounds requires online registration via Tickify, though Aarong Rewards and Club TAAGA cardholders enjoy automatic access. Presenting a card secures entry for the holder and a guest, making the carnival as inclusive as it is immersive. With music, crafts, games, and food stitched together into one month-long celebration, Aarong’s Winter Wonderland is not simply an event. It is a reminder of how heritage can be lived, shared, and celebrated—one artisan story at a time. Event Highlights Week 1: Pitha Utshob (December 4 & 5) Visitors can enjoy live folk performances and taste a variety of seasonal pitha at dedicated stations. Week 2: Thanda Beats (December 11 & 12) The atmosphere will be filled with winter rave vibes under the stars, featuring music from some of the city’s top DJs. Week 3: Fake Wedding (December 18 & 19) Guests can take part in a playful “biye-bari” experience, complete with a “Holud meets meme culture” zone. The staged wedding night will include henna, paan, bangles, and photo booths, alongside dance acts and live DJ sets. Week 4: Concert (December 25 & 26) The season will close with star-studded live concert performances, bringing the month to a musical finale. Every Week The Aarong.com Experience Zone will showcase the newly refreshed aarong.com through interactive, fun, and style-led activities. Artisan Meet & Greet sessions will highlight crafts such as nakshi kantha, pottery, block printing, jewellery, and jamdani. Craft videos and demonstrations will show how heritage techniques continue to keep traditions alive. Community Impact initiatives will support women artisans and local craftspeople. Food and vibes will be provided through winter treats, festive snacks, and cosy hangout corners. A dedicated kids’ zone will offer fun activities and games for children. Written by Nibir Ayaan
MADE IN BANGLADESH: Homegrown Champions of Change
Bangladesh’s meteoric rise in the global garment industry has long been admired, and now a deeper transformation is underway — one that reflects diversification, resilience, and ambition. Amid global supply chain realignments and rising manufacturing costs in East Asia, Bangladesh has emerged as one of the world’s most export-ready economies. But beyond the looms and threads, “Made in Bangladesh” businesses are stepping into the spotlight — from green technology and agribusiness to pharmaceuticals and consumer goods. It’s time the world pays closer attention to the homegrown brands proudly carrying the “Made in Bangladesh” label. The list is far from exhaustive, as Bangladesh is home to many more brands that deserve global recognition. In this special feature, we bring into focus five companies and visionaries who have not only grown with the country but have also redefined what it means to be a “Made in Bangladesh” business. From expanding beyond borders to competing with international players, their journeys reflect the spirit of a nation that refuses to be boxed in. A common thread binds them all — a relentless desire to rise despite the odds. To begin the story, there is none other than Anis Ud Dowla, the visionary chairman of ACI Group. A pioneer in every sense, Dowla represents the kind of leadership that has helped redefine the possibilities of Bangladeshi enterprise. Next comes Hossain Khaled, Chairman of City Bank. This visionary banker played a crucial role in transforming a struggling bank with weak financials into one of the top lenders in the country. From the travel and tourism field, Sadia Haque — co-founder and CEO of ShareTrip — steals the spotlight with her innovations in the sector. The full-stack travel solutions her firm offers have brought about a massive change in the tourism landscape of Bangladesh. No story on Bangladesh would be complete without mentioning Ahsan Khan Chowdhury, chairman and CEO of Pran-RFL Group — a perfect example of how a legacy can be nurtured and turned into an empire. And last but not least, Walton Hi-Tech Industries PLC — the first Bangladesh-origin company to ship electrical and electronic appliances to international markets — stands as a testament to the nation’s growing industrial prowess. Let’s explore the trailblazers behind the “Made in Bangladesh” renaissance. A Beacon of Principled Leadership In Bangladesh’s corporate history, few names command as much respect as M. Anis Ud Dowla. At a time when business and politics often converge, Dowla has carved a distinct path—one rooted in ethics, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to national progress. His career began not in boardrooms but in the field, as a young executive with British Oxygen. Over nearly three decades, he rose through the ranks, managing operations across Pakistan, Kenya, and Bangladesh. That global exposure laid the foundation for a leadership style defined by experimentation and efficiency. The defining moment came in 1992, when Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI) offered him a chance to take over its Bangladesh operations. The deal was unconventional: a “pay-as-you-earn” arrangement that required no upfront capital. Dowla accepted, and Advanced Chemical Industries (ACI) was born. “The beginning was challenging, but I made sure that no matter what, I would remain fair to my workers,” Dowla said. “I assured them that they would receive a fair share of the benefits for the efforts they were putting in. It was a 60:40 profit-sharing arrangement between the investors and workers. And it paid off.” From modest beginnings with just 352 employees, ACI has grown into one of the country’s largest conglomerates, now employing over 30,000 people across 29 subsidiaries. Its portfolio spans pharmaceuticals, consumer goods, agribusiness, and logistics. Under Dowla’s leadership, ACI became the first Bangladeshi company to earn ISO 9001 certification, setting a benchmark for quality and transparency. “I wanted to have a guardian who would ensure that there was no compromise in quality. The ISO certificate did that for me. They used to visit ACI, conduct audits, and help me produce quality products every time.” “I went for the certificate to fulfil my dream of remaining true to our customers and never deceiving anyone in any way.” Despite his success, Dowla remains grounded. His philosophy centres on values—quality, fairness, customer focus, and continuous improvement. These principles, he insists, are not slogans but lived realities within the company. Dowla’s views on politics are equally clear-cut. He believes that mixing business with political ambition undermines merit and compromises governance. “I strongly believe entrepreneurs should not enter politics, and politicians should not be entrepreneurs.” For Dowla, politics is a service, not a career path for entrepreneurs. At ACI, employees are treated as family. The ACI chairman sees leadership as a process of unlocking human potential. To young entrepreneurs, his advice is simple yet profound: pursue what you love, embrace failure as a lesson, and never settle for shortcuts. Even in his late eighties, Dowla remains active, drawing energy from ideas rather than rest. In an era of blurred boundaries and shifting values, Anis Ud Dowla stands as a beacon of principled leadership—an icon admired not just for what he built, but for how he built it. From Startup to Market Leader When Sadia Haque set out to build a travel platform, her vision was rooted in something deeper than bookings and itineraries. “We wanted a travel tech platform where everything would be shared,” said the ShareTrip CEO and Co-Founder. “Sharing of adventure, sharing of experience, sharing of laughter, and sharing of joy. And from that perspective, the name came as ShareTrip.” That philosophy of connection would go on to shape one of Bangladesh’s most successful digital ventures. Drawing on her background in telecoms, media, and technology, Haque channelled over a decade of corporate experience into a startup that would soon redefine how the country travels.
Architect Marina Tabassum A Rare Brilliance
Architect Marina Tabassum has carved a luminous path that transcends architecture and redefined design as a language of place—rooted in climate, culture, and community. Her Bait Ur Rouf Mosque, completed in 2012, became a global milestone when it earned the Aga Khan Award for Architecture in 2016. In 2025, she achieved the rare distinction of winning the Aga Khan Award again, this time for Khudi Bari. Her brilliance extends far beyond these awards. Tabassum has designed the Museum of Independence, Panigram Eco Resort, Hamidur Rahman Memorial Complex, and Comfort Reverie, each reflecting her mastery of rhythm, sustainability, and memory. Internationally, she was commissioned to design the Serpentine Pavilion in London. Marina studied architecture at the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) and founded her own firm, Marina Tabassum Architects (MTA), in 2005. She has taught at renowned institutions worldwide: Professor at the Technical University of Delft (2022–23), Gerald Sheff Visiting Chair at the University of Toronto, and lecturer at the Harvard Graduate School of Design, University of Texas, Bengal Institute, and BRAC University. Her work has earned numerous international accolades, including an honorary doctorate from the Technical University of Munich, the Arnold Brunner Memorial Prize from the American Academy of Arts and Letters, the Gold Medal from the French Academy of Architecture, and the Soane Medal in Architecture from the United Kingdom. She chairs FACE (Foundation for Architecture and Community Equity) and Prakriti, a fair‑trade organization, and is a fellow of the Royal Society of Arts. Between 2017 and 2022, she served on the Steering Committee of the Aga Khan Award for Architecture. Her accolades span continents: TIME 100 (2024), Chevalier of Arts and Letters (2023), UIA Vassilis Sgoutas Prize (2023), Jameel Prize (2018), and Prospect’s Top Ten Thinkers (2020). Bait Ur Rouf Mosque In the northern edge of Dhaka, beside the Turag Canal, the Bait Ur Rouf Mosque rises as a beacon of simplicity, spirituality, and environmental consciousness. Designed by Marina Tabassum in 2006, the project was deeply personal—commissioned by her grandmother, who donated the land. The mosque rejects ornamentation, instead embracing perforated brickwork that allows natural light and ventilation to animate the prayer hall. This environmentally friendly approach is rare in Bangladesh, where mosques often rely on artificial cooling and lighting. Here, light itself becomes the architecture—shifting with the hours of prayer, creating atmospheres of contemplation and serenity. Tabassum’s design responds to both urban transformation and community needs. As Dhaka’s sprawl consumed open spaces, she envisioned the mosque as more than a place of worship: a plinth and gathering space for dialogue, reflection, and social interaction. Rooted in Islamic tradition, where mosques historically served multiple civic functions, the building reclaims that identity for modern times. The prayer hall, rotated to align with the qibla, is supported by eight columns and wrapped in load‑bearing brickwork, balancing cost efficiency with timeless strength. Awarded the Aga Khan Award for Architecture in 2016, Bait Ur Rouf Mosque stands as a model of climate‑responsive, community‑driven design—an enduring testament to the power of light, space, and faith. Khudi Bari In Bangladesh’s fragile deltaic landscape, where rivers shift and floods displace thousands, Marina Tabassum envisioned Khudi Bari—a self‑initiated experiment that has grown into a global model of resilience. Meaning “small house,” the lightweight, modular shelter is built from bamboo and corrugated metal, designed to be assembled quickly, relocated easily, and withstand the pressures of a volatile climate. What began as a modest idea has transformed lives across chars, floodplains, and refugee camps. Families who once lost everything to river erosion now remain together during disasters, a safeguard against child marriage and trafficking. In Rangpur, when surrounding homes collapsed in a storm, Khudi Bari units stood firm. The design’s impact extends beyond Bangladesh. The Vitra Design Museum in Germany acquired a Khudi Bari for its permanent collection, while the World Food Programme commissioned Tabassum to adapt the system for Rohingya refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar. There, Khudi Bari evolved into women‑friendly community centres, food distribution outlets, and “Shantikhana” or Houses of Peace—spaces for education, livelihood, and healing. Awarded the Aga Khan Award for Architecture in 2025, Khudi Bari is more than shelter. It is architecture as empathy—an elegant, low‑cost structure that restores dignity, strengthens communities, and redefines how design can serve humanity. To honour the brilliance and achievements of Architect Marina Tabassum, Ceramic Bangladesh Magazine, a publication of the Bangladesh Ceramic Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BCMEA), in partnership with ArchiConnect—the first and largest digital platform for architects and professionals in the construction industry in Bangladesh—organised a grand event at the Renaissance Dhaka Gulshan Hotel on November 8. Architect Moushumi Ahmed moderated the beautifully crafted night, attended by the country’s leading architects, real estate and construction industry leaders, and media personnel. In his opening remarks, Architect Jalal Ahmed, FIAAB, KIA, founder and CEO of ArchiConnect, said: “Winning the Aga Khan Award for Architecture—often referred to as the ‘Oscar of architecture’—was no accident. It is the result of her deep thinking, clarity of perspective, and unwavering ethical commitment.” PANEL DISCUSSION The grand event had a panel discussion featuring the country’s top architectural minds. Architect Mahmudul Anwar Riyaad, principal designer and director of DWM4 Architects, moderated the session, opening with the question of how the Aga Khan Awards had affected architects during the 1980s. Architect Fuad Hassan Mallick, professor and dean of the School of Architecture and Design at BRAC University, recalled the surprise of the first award cycle: “I personally felt that architecture’s spectrum is much larger than what we understood—and also it seemed relevant for our country. This sort of thing ended up being number one for many of us. After that, when Mimar magazine appeared, we understood architecture is not only Western, American, and Europe‑centric. Something is there in our region also.” Architect Nahas Ahmed Khalil, principal designer of ARC Architectural Consultants, praised the honesty in Marina’s design
Bangladesh ArchSummit 2025 Begins Alongside the IAB Build Expo 2025
The Institute of Architects Bangladesh (IAB) inaugurated the Bangladesh ArchSummit 2025 today, December 11. This year’s theme, “Crafting Space, Shaping Habitat,” sets the stage for a grand celebration of architecture, education, profession and practice, ideas, innovation, and excellence. Running in parallel with the Summit, IAB also launched the IAB Build Expo 2025, the country’s largest exhibition of building materials and construction innovations. Both events will continue until December 13 at the Bangladesh China Friendship Conference Centre (BCFCC). The Summit is open exclusively to registered participants, while the Expo is open to all visitors. This year’s Summit has been carefully planned with a distinguished lineup of renowned international and national speakers, along with a range of enriching programmes, including an exhibition of award-winning architectural works, roundtable discussions, a young citizens’ painting competition, a photography competition, and exciting cultural events for registered participants. Participants will also have the opportunity to attend the Student Forum, Youth Forum, and plenary sessions, where esteemed speakers will share their ideas, design philosophies, and professional insights throughout the three-day event. Day One began with the Student Forum, featuring a quiz and debate competition, and included the Summit and Build Expo Inauguration Ceremony. Other attractions include the Open Photography Competition, Young Citizens’ Painting Competition, and Public Exhibition on Architecture. The Young Painting Exhibition features curated artworks submitted by students from Classes 6 to 10. The jury panel for the selection included Architect Rafiq Azam, artist Afzal Hossain, and Farida Zaman. The theme of the architectural works exhibition, PEOPLE | PLACE | PRESENCE, celebrates architecture that shapes communities, responds to context, and defines presence through space. The exhibition showcases curated works selected from project submissions in the following categories: Internationally Awarded Projects (2024–2025) from Bangladesh IAB & BERGER Award Projects (last cycle) Public Projects (nationwide) Projects Located in Old Dhaka The project selection team comprised Dr. Abu Sayeed M Ahmed, Ar. Khan Md. Mahfuzul Hug Zaglul, Ar. Nowajish Mahbub, Dr. Khurshid Zabin Hossain Taufique, and Prof. Zainab Faruqui Ali. The ArchSummit and Build Expo aim to provide a platform for architects, students, industry professionals, and the public to explore architecture, innovation, and the future of the built environment in Bangladesh. Written By Tasmiah Chowdhury
MADE IN BANGLADESH: Homegrown Champions of Change
Bangladesh’s meteoric rise in the global garment industry has long been admired, and now a deeper transformation is underway — one that reflects diversification, resilience, and ambition. Amid global supply chain realignments and rising manufacturing costs in East Asia, Bangladesh has emerged as one of the world’s most export-ready economies. But beyond the looms and threads, “Made in Bangladesh” businesses are stepping into the spotlight — from green technology and agribusiness to pharmaceuticals and consumer goods. It’s time the world pays closer attention to the homegrown brands proudly carrying the “Made in Bangladesh” label. The list is far from exhaustive, as Bangladesh is home to many more brands that deserve global recognition. In this special feature, we bring into focus five companies and visionaries who have not only grown with the country but have also redefined what it means to be a “Made in Bangladesh” business. From expanding beyond borders to competing with international players, their journeys reflect the spirit of a nation that refuses to be boxed in. A common thread binds them all — a relentless desire to rise despite the odds. To begin the story, there is none other than Anis Ud Dowla, the visionary chairman of ACI Group. A pioneer in every sense, Dowla represents the kind of leadership that has helped redefine the possibilities of Bangladeshi enterprise. Next comes Hossain Khaled, Chairman of City Bank. This visionary banker played a crucial role in transforming a struggling bank with weak financials into one of the top lenders in the country. From the travel and tourism field, Sadia Haque — co-founder and CEO of ShareTrip — steals the spotlight with her innovations in the sector. The full-stack travel solutions her firm offers have brought about a massive change in the tourism landscape of Bangladesh. No story on Bangladesh would be complete without mentioning Ahsan Khan Chowdhury, chairman and CEO of Pran-RFL Group — a perfect example of how a legacy can be nurtured and turned into an empire. And last but not least, Walton Hi-Tech Industries PLC — the first Bangladesh-origin company to ship electrical and electronic appliances to international markets — stands as a testament to the nation’s growing industrial prowess. Let’s explore the trailblazers behind the “Made in Bangladesh” renaissance. A Beacon of Principled Leadership In Bangladesh’s corporate history, few names command as much respect as M. Anis Ud Dowla. At a time when business and politics often converge, Dowla has carved a distinct path—one rooted in ethics, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to national progress. His career began not in boardrooms but in the field, as a young executive with British Oxygen. Over nearly three decades, he rose through the ranks, managing operations across Pakistan, Kenya, and Bangladesh. That global exposure laid the foundation for a leadership style defined by experimentation and efficiency. The defining moment came in 1992, when Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI) offered him a chance to take over its Bangladesh operations. The deal was unconventional: a “pay-as-you-earn” arrangement that required no upfront capital. Dowla accepted, and Advanced Chemical Industries (ACI) was born. “The beginning was challenging, but I made sure that no matter what, I would remain fair to my workers,” Dowla said. “I assured them that they would receive a fair share of the benefits for the efforts they were putting in. It was a 60:40 profit-sharing arrangement between the investors and workers. And it paid off.” From modest beginnings with just 352 employees, ACI has grown into one of the country’s largest conglomerates, now employing over 30,000 people across 29 subsidiaries. Its portfolio spans pharmaceuticals, consumer goods, agribusiness, and logistics. Under Dowla’s leadership, ACI became the first Bangladeshi company to earn ISO 9001 certification, setting a benchmark for quality and transparency. “I wanted to have a guardian who would ensure that there was no compromise in quality. The ISO certificate did that for me. They used to visit ACI, conduct audits, and help me produce quality products every time.” “I went for the certificate to fulfil my dream of remaining true to our customers and never deceiving anyone in any way.” Despite his success, Dowla remains grounded. His philosophy centres on values—quality, fairness, customer focus, and continuous improvement. These principles, he insists, are not slogans but lived realities within the company. Dowla’s views on politics are equally clear-cut. He believes that mixing business with political ambition undermines merit and compromises governance. “I strongly believe entrepreneurs should not enter politics, and politicians should not be entrepreneurs.” For Dowla, politics is a service, not a career path for entrepreneurs. At ACI, employees are treated as family. The ACI chairman sees leadership as a process of unlocking human potential. To young entrepreneurs, his advice is simple yet profound: pursue what you love, embrace failure as a lesson, and never settle for shortcuts. Even in his late eighties, Dowla remains active, drawing energy from ideas rather than rest. In an era of blurred boundaries and shifting values, Anis Ud Dowla stands as a beacon of principled leadership—an icon admired not just for what he built, but for how he built it. From Startup to Market Leader When Sadia Haque set out to build a travel platform, her vision was rooted in something deeper than bookings and itineraries. “We wanted a travel tech platform where everything would be shared,” said the ShareTrip CEO and Co-Founder. “Sharing of adventure, sharing of experience, sharing of laughter, and sharing of joy. And from that perspective, the name came as ShareTrip.” That philosophy of connection would go on to shape one of Bangladesh’s most successful digital ventures. Drawing on her background in telecoms, media, and technology, Haque channelled over a decade of corporate experience into a startup that would soon redefine how the country travels.
Architect Marina Tabassum A Rare Brilliance
Architect Marina Tabassum has carved a luminous path that transcends architecture and redefined design as a language of place—rooted in climate, culture, and community. Her Bait Ur Rouf Mosque, completed in 2012, became a global milestone when it earned the Aga Khan Award for Architecture in 2016. In 2025, she achieved the rare distinction of winning the Aga Khan Award again, this time for Khudi Bari. Her brilliance extends far beyond these awards. Tabassum has designed the Museum of Independence, Panigram Eco Resort, Hamidur Rahman Memorial Complex, and Comfort Reverie, each reflecting her mastery of rhythm, sustainability, and memory. Internationally, she was commissioned to design the Serpentine Pavilion in London. Marina studied architecture at the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) and founded her own firm, Marina Tabassum Architects (MTA), in 2005. She has taught at renowned institutions worldwide: Professor at the Technical University of Delft (2022–23), Gerald Sheff Visiting Chair at the University of Toronto, and lecturer at the Harvard Graduate School of Design, University of Texas, Bengal Institute, and BRAC University. Her work has earned numerous international accolades, including an honorary doctorate from the Technical University of Munich, the Arnold Brunner Memorial Prize from the American Academy of Arts and Letters, the Gold Medal from the French Academy of Architecture, and the Soane Medal in Architecture from the United Kingdom. She chairs FACE (Foundation for Architecture and Community Equity) and Prakriti, a fair‑trade organization, and is a fellow of the Royal Society of Arts. Between 2017 and 2022, she served on the Steering Committee of the Aga Khan Award for Architecture. Her accolades span continents: TIME 100 (2024), Chevalier of Arts and Letters (2023), UIA Vassilis Sgoutas Prize (2023), Jameel Prize (2018), and Prospect’s Top Ten Thinkers (2020). Bait Ur Rouf Mosque In the northern edge of Dhaka, beside the Turag Canal, the Bait Ur Rouf Mosque rises as a beacon of simplicity, spirituality, and environmental consciousness. Designed by Marina Tabassum in 2006, the project was deeply personal—commissioned by her grandmother, who donated the land. The mosque rejects ornamentation, instead embracing perforated brickwork that allows natural light and ventilation to animate the prayer hall. This environmentally friendly approach is rare in Bangladesh, where mosques often rely on artificial cooling and lighting. Here, light itself becomes the architecture—shifting with the hours of prayer, creating atmospheres of contemplation and serenity. Tabassum’s design responds to both urban transformation and community needs. As Dhaka’s sprawl consumed open spaces, she envisioned the mosque as more than a place of worship: a plinth and gathering space for dialogue, reflection, and social interaction. Rooted in Islamic tradition, where mosques historically served multiple civic functions, the building reclaims that identity for modern times. The prayer hall, rotated to align with the qibla, is supported by eight columns and wrapped in load‑bearing brickwork, balancing cost efficiency with timeless strength. Awarded the Aga Khan Award for Architecture in 2016, Bait Ur Rouf Mosque stands as a model of climate‑responsive, community‑driven design—an enduring testament to the power of light, space, and faith. Khudi Bari In Bangladesh’s fragile deltaic landscape, where rivers shift and floods displace thousands, Marina Tabassum envisioned Khudi Bari—a self‑initiated experiment that has grown into a global model of resilience. Meaning “small house,” the lightweight, modular shelter is built from bamboo and corrugated metal, designed to be assembled quickly, relocated easily, and withstand the pressures of a volatile climate. What began as a modest idea has transformed lives across chars, floodplains, and refugee camps. Families who once lost everything to river erosion now remain together during disasters, a safeguard against child marriage and trafficking. In Rangpur, when surrounding homes collapsed in a storm, Khudi Bari units stood firm. The design’s impact extends beyond Bangladesh. The Vitra Design Museum in Germany acquired a Khudi Bari for its permanent collection, while the World Food Programme commissioned Tabassum to adapt the system for Rohingya refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar. There, Khudi Bari evolved into women‑friendly community centres, food distribution outlets, and “Shantikhana” or Houses of Peace—spaces for education, livelihood, and healing. Awarded the Aga Khan Award for Architecture in 2025, Khudi Bari is more than shelter. It is architecture as empathy—an elegant, low‑cost structure that restores dignity, strengthens communities, and redefines how design can serve humanity. To honour the brilliance and achievements of Architect Marina Tabassum, Ceramic Bangladesh Magazine, a publication of the Bangladesh Ceramic Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BCMEA), in partnership with ArchiConnect—the first and largest digital platform for architects and professionals in the construction industry in Bangladesh—organised a grand event at the Renaissance Dhaka Gulshan Hotel on November 8. Architect Moushumi Ahmed moderated the beautifully crafted night, attended by the country’s leading architects, real estate and construction industry leaders, and media personnel. In his opening remarks, Architect Jalal Ahmed, FIAAB, KIA, founder and CEO of ArchiConnect, said: “Winning the Aga Khan Award for Architecture—often referred to as the ‘Oscar of architecture’—was no accident. It is the result of her deep thinking, clarity of perspective, and unwavering ethical commitment.” PANEL DISCUSSION The grand event had a panel discussion featuring the country’s top architectural minds. Architect Mahmudul Anwar Riyaad, principal designer and director of DWM4 Architects, moderated the session, opening with the question of how the Aga Khan Awards had affected architects during the 1980s. Architect Fuad Hassan Mallick, professor and dean of the School of Architecture and Design at BRAC University, recalled the surprise of the first award cycle: “I personally felt that architecture’s spectrum is much larger than what we understood—and also it seemed relevant for our country. This sort of thing ended up being number one for many of us. After that, when Mimar magazine appeared, we understood architecture is not only Western, American, and Europe‑centric. Something is there in our region also.” Architect Nahas Ahmed Khalil, principal designer of ARC Architectural Consultants, praised the honesty in Marina’s design
A Carnival of Crafts and Community
Dhaka’s winter evenings are about to take on a new glow as Aarong ushers in the return of its Winter Wonderland, an immersive showcase where rural women’s artistry meets festive joy, turning December nights into a living tapestry of culture and creativity. Now in its second season, the month‑long festival is more than a carnival—it is a crafted journey into Bangladesh’s artisan heritage, blending music, food, games, and storytelling with the warmth of community celebration. The event stretches across two vibrant spaces, each designed to immerse visitors in the story of Bangladeshi craftsmanship. At the Tejgaon Outlet Parking Lot, glowing gates open into a world of artisan stalls, DIY craft corners, food kiosks, and the aarong.com experience zone. Here, the main stage sets the rhythm for music and performance, while every stall tells a tale of the rural women whose hands weave, carve, and print the designs that define Aarong. Terracotta Tales, meanwhile, offers a different flavour of festivity. Families will find carnival games, a dedicated children’s zone, and a curated menu of seasonal treats. Unlike the Tejgaon site, this space welcomes visitors without registration, ensuring the carnival atmosphere flows freely between both venues. The experience is designed to be more than entertainment. Every purchase, every photograph taken, and every beat enjoyed feeds back into the lives of the artisans who make Aarong possible. It is a circle of value, where celebration meets empowerment. Late-night shopping adds another layer to the festivities. On event days, the Tejgaon outlet extends its hours until 11pm, inviting guests to browse curated collections that reflect the warmth and colour of the season. Entry to the Tejgaon grounds requires online registration via Tickify, though Aarong Rewards and Club TAAGA cardholders enjoy automatic access. Presenting a card secures entry for the holder and a guest, making the carnival as inclusive as it is immersive. With music, crafts, games, and food stitched together into one month-long celebration, Aarong’s Winter Wonderland is not simply an event. It is a reminder of how heritage can be lived, shared, and celebrated—one artisan story at a time. Event Highlights Week 1: Pitha Utshob (December 4 & 5) Visitors can enjoy live folk performances and taste a variety of seasonal pitha at dedicated stations. Week 2: Thanda Beats (December 11 & 12) The atmosphere will be filled with winter rave vibes under the stars, featuring music from some of the city’s top DJs. Week 3: Fake Wedding (December 18 & 19) Guests can take part in a playful “biye-bari” experience, complete with a “Holud meets meme culture” zone. The staged wedding night will include henna, paan, bangles, and photo booths, alongside dance acts and live DJ sets. Week 4: Concert (December 25 & 26) The season will close with star-studded live concert performances, bringing the month to a musical finale. Every Week The Aarong.com Experience Zone will showcase the newly refreshed aarong.com through interactive, fun, and style-led activities. Artisan Meet & Greet sessions will highlight crafts such as nakshi kantha, pottery, block printing, jewellery, and jamdani. Craft videos and demonstrations will show how heritage techniques continue to keep traditions alive. Community Impact initiatives will support women artisans and local craftspeople. Food and vibes will be provided through winter treats, festive snacks, and cosy hangout corners. A dedicated kids’ zone will offer fun activities and games for children. Written by Nibir Ayaan
A Carnival of Crafts and Community
Dhaka’s winter evenings are about to take on a new glow as Aarong ushers in the return of its Winter Wonderland, an immersive showcase where rural women’s artistry meets festive joy, turning December nights into a living tapestry of culture and creativity. Now in its second season, the month‑long festival is more than a carnival—it is a crafted journey into Bangladesh’s artisan heritage, blending music, food, games, and storytelling with the warmth of community celebration. The event stretches across two vibrant spaces, each designed to immerse visitors in the story of Bangladeshi craftsmanship. At the Tejgaon Outlet Parking Lot, glowing gates open into a world of artisan stalls, DIY craft corners, food kiosks, and the aarong.com experience zone. Here, the main stage sets the rhythm for music and performance, while every stall tells a tale of the rural women whose hands weave, carve, and print the designs that define Aarong. Terracotta Tales, meanwhile, offers a different flavour of festivity. Families will find carnival games, a dedicated children’s zone, and a curated menu of seasonal treats. Unlike the Tejgaon site, this space welcomes visitors without registration, ensuring the carnival atmosphere flows freely between both venues. The experience is designed to be more than entertainment. Every purchase, every photograph taken, and every beat enjoyed feeds back into the lives of the artisans who make Aarong possible. It is a circle of value, where celebration meets empowerment. Late-night shopping adds another layer to the festivities. On event days, the Tejgaon outlet extends its hours until 11pm, inviting guests to browse curated collections that reflect the warmth and colour of the season. Entry to the Tejgaon grounds requires online registration via Tickify, though Aarong Rewards and Club TAAGA cardholders enjoy automatic access. Presenting a card secures entry for the holder and a guest, making the carnival as inclusive as it is immersive. With music, crafts, games, and food stitched together into one month-long celebration, Aarong’s Winter Wonderland is not simply an event. It is a reminder of how heritage can be lived, shared, and celebrated—one artisan story at a time. Event Highlights Week 1: Pitha Utshob (December 4 & 5) Visitors can enjoy live folk performances and taste a variety of seasonal pitha at dedicated stations. Week 2: Thanda Beats (December 11 & 12) The atmosphere will be filled with winter rave vibes under the stars, featuring music from some of the city’s top DJs. Week 3: Fake Wedding (December 18 & 19) Guests can take part in a playful “biye-bari” experience, complete with a “Holud meets meme culture” zone. The staged wedding night will include henna, paan, bangles, and photo booths, alongside dance acts and live DJ sets. Week 4: Concert (December 25 & 26) The season will close with star-studded live concert performances, bringing the month to a musical finale. Every Week The Aarong.com Experience Zone will showcase the newly refreshed aarong.com through interactive, fun, and style-led activities. Artisan Meet & Greet sessions will highlight crafts such as nakshi kantha, pottery, block printing, jewellery, and jamdani. Craft videos and demonstrations will show how heritage techniques continue to keep traditions alive. Community Impact initiatives will support women artisans and local craftspeople. Food and vibes will be provided through winter treats, festive snacks, and cosy hangout corners. A dedicated kids’ zone will offer fun activities and games for children. Written by Nibir Ayaan
