As part of AIUB’s vibrant celebration of Pohela Boishakh 1432, the Department of Architecture initiated a colorful and culturally rooted project, led by its dedicated students and faculty. The preparation phase turned the university campus into a creative hub, alive with traditional art, collaborative spirit, and festive energy.

To mark the Bengali New Year, 110 students from Design Studio I and II (Sections A & B) enthusiastically created eight traditional mascots inspired by Bengali folklore. These included: Elephant, Horse, Owl, “Holde Pakhi” (Yellow Bird), “Foring” (Dragonfly), Deer, Peacock, and Parrot. Placed across the campus, these vibrant creations symbolized cultural richness and welcomed the Bangla New Year in a uniquely artistic fashion.

The celebration activities were meticulously coordinated under the guidance of the Head of Department, M. Arefeen Ibrahim. The department’s approach successfully blended educational values with cultural expression. Students were mentored by their dedicated studio guides — Tarek Morad, Rashed Hasan, Nandita Barai, Nushrat-E-Hoque, Md Obaidul Haque, Sumaita Fatema Nur, Ishrar Haque, and Preyo Darshan Dash — who played a vital role in shaping the creative outputs.

As part of the event’s structure:

• Studio I students created many vibrant placards and decorated the linear space in front of Annex 7, transforming it into a festive zone.
• Studio II students designed, created and installed the large-scale mascots throughout the AIUB campus.

In addition to enriching the ambiance and reinforcing the cultural spirit of Pohela Boishakh, current students and alumni of the Department of Architecture came together the night before the event to create stunning street art in the parking space (in front of Annex 2-3), adding another layer of color and community engagement.

A special arts & crafts stall was also arranged during the university fair, where student-made placards, paintings, and cultural symbols were proudly displayed — drawing enthusiastic interest from students, faculty, and visitors alike.

The celebrations were officially inaugurated by Ms. Nadia Anwar, Founder Member and Chairman of the AIUB Board of Trustees along with Prof. Dr. Saiful Islam, Vice Chancellor, AIUB. A special mention goes to Ms. Nadia Anwar, who wholeheartedly supported and coordinated what became the most vibrant AIUB Boishakh Utshab to date.

This celebration not only honored the spirit of the Bengali New Year but also showcased the Department of Architecture’s commitment to promoting heritage-based design education and student-driven creativity.

The Department extends heartfelt gratitude to the AIUB administration and all support staff for their continuous cooperation, encouragement, and logistical assistance throughout the preparation and execution of this memorable event.