Dhaka from my window Photo

Photographer’s Note

Gulshan (one of the elite areas in Dhaka) as seen from the window of the 13th floor of BRAC center where I work. After the exhausting heat of a day in July, the light was becoming softer, the streets were yet half deserted, monsoon clouds rising high above the horizon - seemed like a beautiful, glamorous view of Dhaka. And yet it is as unreal as can be when you see the slums on the extreme left. Surrounded by the most elite, rich areas of the city is a small island filled with slums of some of the poorest (intentionally tried not to include in the photo). Sometimes it looks as if the island is unable to hold the burden small thatched houses. The contrast is so obvious, so sharp that it is impossible to avoid it.

I have been planning for a long time to do a series on this slum, the people that live there and the tall buildings around it with extravagant billboards. But when finally taking a shot I wanted to have a beautiful picture of my city, one which will not make me or anyone who sees the photo sad. Amidst all the inequality, the unbearable contrast of poverty and filthy wealth I wanted to have a photograph of Dhaka which would make me feel good whether it conforms to reality or not...

macondo, parbo, fanni trouve(nt) cette note utile

Critiques | Translate

aadilj (17950) 2008-11-06 21:27

Hi Kazi, this seems to be a lovely place and captured well by you with the window reflecting in the fore ground

macondo (13207) 2008-11-07 4:49

Hi Kazi.
Very interesting and thoughtful note to go with your colourful picture. I'm sure this is the first picture I have seen on TE of Dakha. I couldn't believe its modernity at first, until I read the note. I see some reflections of windows in the shot, but you did say you were at work when you took this. If I may suggest - you can upload a picture up to 800 pixels wide. I would like to see a larger shot.
Anyway, thanks very much for this one and the very honest notes.
Regards,
Andrew

parbo (11004) 2008-11-07 11:57

Hello Kazi,

Your photo is attractive with its splendid contrasts between emerald colored river, red roofs and white facades. I like the reflection of facades on dazzling water surface with their yellow and white tones. As you know the new buildings, paved roads never erase or covers poverty that easily recognizable surround of new settlements. This is the reality. I like quality of your photo in natural colors and sharpness. Congratulations. Have a nice weekend.

Best Regards,

Ertugrul

fanni (8737) 2008-11-07 14:16

Hello Kazi,
I like this shot, it is interesting and it shows much about the country which I will most probably never see with own eyes in reality! Very good, rich colours and interesting composition. I like your note very much, too, and I share your feelings concerning this situation.
I must say that the situation with old/new and the poor/the rich reminds me of the current situation in Russia. I mean - the idea... the way it all has been going for quite some time.
It's like a beautiful mask placed on the face of a dying, very ill person whom you can't get rid of, and you have to bear with his presence till he finally dies by himself, surrounded with beauty and "the nouveaux riches".
Thank you, and have a nice weekend!
Elena

siislam (290) 2008-11-07 18:54