Narrative that transcends the ordinary

Book REVIEW

Welcome to “Dhaka Dynamics: Lensing through Journalism” by Avik Sanwar Rahman, a profound exploration of Bangladesh’s socio-economic landscape from 2003 to 2005.

In this meticulously crafted anthology, Avik, a distinguished journalist whose insightful contributions have graced the pages of The Daily Star, a renowned daily newspaper in Bangladesh, offers readers a poignant journey through the heart of Dhaka, the capital city. Avik captures the essence of a nation grappling with significant moments of change, challenge, and resilience through his perceptive observations and unwavering commitment to truth.

From riveting exposes to thought-provoking analyses, Avik’s articles serve as a powerful testament to the transformative power of journalism in shaping public discourse and fostering accountability. With each page, readers are invited to witness the complexities of Bangladesh’s dynamics, as seen through the lens of a seasoned journalist dedicated to uncovering the untold stories beneath the surface.

The book exemplifies journalism, offering a blend of information and narrative that transcends the ordinary. The articles report facts and illuminate the deeper layers of society. This work is a testament to storytelling’s power in shaping a more nuanced and informed journalistic profession.

These articles chronicle the years from 2003 to 2005 in Dhaka, becoming a time capsule, capturing the city’s evolution, challenges, and triumphs. They serve as a historical narrative, documenting the pulse of Dhaka during a pivotal period. From socio-economic shifts to cultural transformations, each article encapsulates a moment, contributing to a collective memory that enriches the understanding of Dhaka’s journey through time. Within the pages of this book, readers will find a compelling nature of the essence of investigative journalism.

This book presents a comprehensive spectrum, weaving together narratives from crime to human misery and extending to development activities. It captures society’s multifaceted nature and offers a panoramic view of the human experience.

The 320-page book comprises over 130 stories, predominantly focusing on Dhaka City and opinion pieces. It focuses on various aspects such as heritage, culture, economy, governance, human rights, crime, health, and more. The content is organized into three sections: News Stories, Features, and Columns, offering a comprehensive exploration of Dhaka’s dynamics.

The series of articles highlighting Dhaka’s socio-economic problems significantly contributed to Bangladesh’s capital’s economic development.

Some of his articles and features have been cited in various research papers. For instance, his article on food adulteration published in The Daily Star Magazine and his piece on media law, “More Private Television Channels to Go on Air,” have been referenced by research papers published on platforms such as Scribd and LawyersJury. Additionally, “Eating Away Our Health” has been cited by researchers and published on sites like ResearchGate, eSciencePress, now.edu.au, helsinki.fi, ulab.edu.bd, aiub.edu, and others.

Avik’s series of articles on circular waterways around Dhaka city was groundbreaking in protecting the capital from river encroachment, reducing traffic congestion, and boosting trade by aiding government project completions. These articles highlighted the problems and solutions associated with these projects. His numerous articles on local business have also helped the city’s business community negotiate with the government for economic development.

The book, published in February 2024, was launched at the New York Book Fair and was nominated for a prestigious journalism award by the American Bangladesh Press Club in New York. The award recognizes Avik’s significant contributions to journalism in Bangladesh and the USA.

Avik’s columns and articles on bilateral relationships between Bangladesh and the USA have played a pivotal role in shaping and enhancing the diplomatic ties between the two nations.

Avik’s interview with Arnold Zeitlin, the AP Bureau Chief in Pakistan during the Liberation War of Independence of Bangladesh in 1971, provided a unique perspective from an American journalist on Bangladesh’s struggle for independence.

The book is a paperback edition with picturesque details published by Rochoita publication house. The publisher, Luftul Hossain, designed the cover. The cover design and the images in the articles rightly reflect Dhaka’s past, reminding readers of the city’s historical context. The quality of the paper is of international standard.

As you go through the pages of this book, embark on a journey through the corridors of power, the streets of activism, and the hearts of ordinary citizens. Whether you are a historian, a journalist, a student, or a curious reader, “Dhaka Dynamics: Lensing through Journalism” promises to enlighten, inform, and inspire.

As an accomplished author, Avik Sanwar Rahman penned the novel The Box, which is recognized and catalogued at the Library of Congress and six US university libraries. He is currently volunteering as an Executive Editor for a New York-based news magazine The Bay Wave.

May “Dhaka Dynamics: Lensing through Journalism” serve as a beacon of insight and inspiration for all who seek to understand and engage with Bangladesh’s ever-evolving landscape and beyond.

Happy reading!

Fatema Zohra Haque is a Fulbright Scholar, International Educator, Journalist, Poet and Writer from Bangladesh. She authored 26 books in Bangla and English. [email protected]