honorable mention
MD RASHID UN NABI bangladesh
Photo © MD RASHID UN NABI
title
WHISPERS OF THE FORGOTTEN
As a cancer specialist, my curiosity about the human mind and its vast array of emotions led me to this enigmatic place. My fascination with mental health drew me to the hospital, eager to capture the essence of the forgotten souls confined within its iron bars.
With my trusted camera in hand, I obtained permission from the asylum's psychiatrist to document the lives of the patients. My goal was to create a photography portfolio that would not only tell their stories but also serve as a tribute to their resilience, fostering greater understanding and compassion.
In my journey through Pabna Mental Hospital, I met many individuals whose minds had been fractured by the harsh realities of life. Each photograph I took, each story I recorded, became a chapter in my growing collection. Through my lens, I unveiled the raw emotions that society often neglects or fears.
Yet, my work was not solely about capturing despair and suffering. I also sought to highlight the flickers of hope and beauty that emerged amidst the turmoil. I photographed moments of connection between patients, where laughter briefly dispelled the oppressive atmosphere. I immortalized acts of kindness from the dedicated staff, who tirelessly cared for those abandoned by the world.
In documenting these moments, I aimed to reveal a more nuanced narrative—one that encompassed both the pain and the enduring spirit of those within Pabna Mental Hospital.
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entry description
In the small town of Pabna, nestled in the western side of Bangladesh and established in 1957, lies an imposing institution known as Pabna Mental Hospital. This venerable hospital, encircled by rivers, has a storied past filled with both despair and healing, its walls bearing witness to countless tales of suffering and recovery.As a cancer specialist, my curiosity about the human mind and its vast array of emotions led me to this enigmatic place. My fascination with mental health drew me to the hospital, eager to capture the essence of the forgotten souls confined within its iron bars.
With my trusted camera in hand, I obtained permission from the asylum's psychiatrist to document the lives of the patients. My goal was to create a photography portfolio that would not only tell their stories but also serve as a tribute to their resilience, fostering greater understanding and compassion.
In my journey through Pabna Mental Hospital, I met many individuals whose minds had been fractured by the harsh realities of life. Each photograph I took, each story I recorded, became a chapter in my growing collection. Through my lens, I unveiled the raw emotions that society often neglects or fears.
Yet, my work was not solely about capturing despair and suffering. I also sought to highlight the flickers of hope and beauty that emerged amidst the turmoil. I photographed moments of connection between patients, where laughter briefly dispelled the oppressive atmosphere. I immortalized acts of kindness from the dedicated staff, who tirelessly cared for those abandoned by the world.
In documenting these moments, I aimed to reveal a more nuanced narrative—one that encompassed both the pain and the enduring spirit of those within Pabna Mental Hospital.
about the photographer
Cancer specialist and Photographer. Photography since 1985. Received 850 International awards in photography. Highest record in Bangladesh. Received EFIAP/Platinum distinction from International Federation of Photographic Art FIAP in 2024. It is also only distinction in the country. More than 2000 International publications. Received LIFE TIME achievement award form East West International University, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Published a monochrome photo book " WITNESS OF TIME" in 2018. Had three solo exhibition abroad including Ukraine, Romania, Pakistan. Judges in 20 International Photo Contest including USA, Turkey, India, Senegal etc. Currently acting as Senior Consultant and Head, Cancer Care Center, United Hospital Limited, Dhaka Bangladesh.back to gallery
