Chobi Mela XI

The international festival of photography Chobi Mela returns to Dhaka, Bangladesh, in January 2026.

Overview

Now, more than half a year after Bangladesh rose up in people’s revolt, Chobi Mela realised a transformative possibility that resonates with the phonetic sound of ‘Re’. ‘Re’ symbolises collective imagination and the revival of dormant hopes. They envision ‘rebuilding’ when disruptions signal new beginnings. They also imagine ‘regeneration’ of a primordial future world, environmental healing, and rejuvenation. More so, in response to human disturbances, They aim to restore damaged ecosystems, increase biodiversity, and enhance nature’s ‘resilience’, and to remain defiant in the face of adversity. The eleventh edition ‘re-imagines’ the euphony of ‘Re’.

Chobi Mela, the international festival of photography since its inception in 2000 has been the most significant photographic event in Asia, and the first of a regular biennale, that has become one of the highlights of the Asian calendar. It is organised by Drik Picture Library Ltd. and Pathshala South Asian Media Institute.

More info coming soon.