The Embassy of Sweden in Bangladesh, in collaboration with UNDP, UNFPA, and UN Women, has launched the ‘Bangladeshi and Swedish Baba’ photography exhibition at the Padmar Paar Muktomanch in Rajshahi.
This exhibition celebrates the evolving roles of fathers as care givers and highlights the transformative impact of active fatherhood in advancing gender equality and building more equitable societies.
Following the success of previous exhibitions in Dhaka, Khulna, and Chattogram, which collectively attracted over 8,500 visitors, the Rajshahi edition aims to deepen the dialogue on modern fatherhood and shared caregiving roles, sparking meaningful discussions.
The exhibition showcases 23 compelling photographs of Bangladeshi Baba actively engaged in parenting and caregiving. A concept inspired by the award-winning “Swedish Dads” series byrenownedSwedishphotographerJohanBävman,theinitiativeencourages audiences to rethink traditional gender roles and embrace gender equality as a shared responsibility.
The Rajshahi exhibition has been made possible through a collaborative effort with local authorities, including the Rajshahi City Corporation and the Divisional Commissioner. Visitors can explore the photographs and theirstoriesuntilFebruary7,gainingadeeperunderstanding of the vital roles fathers play in shaping a more inclusive and just society.
Research consistently shows that when fathersareactivelyinvolvedincaregiving,socialnorms around gender roles begin to shift. In Bangladesh, traditional expectations often place the burden of caregiving disproportionately on women.
However, studies indicate that children with engaged fathers perform better academically, exhibit higher self-esteem, and develop healthier social relationships. These children are also less likely to perpetuate gender stereotypes. On a societal level, involved fatherhood promotes empathy, reduces domestic violence, and strengthens community cohesion.
A total of 23 fathers were selected from 100 submissions through a month-long competition held online.
The jury board included H.E. Nicolas Weeks, Swedish Ambassador to Bangladesh; Mr. Stefan Liller, UNDP Resident Representative; Mr. Masaki Watabe, Representativea.i.,UNFPA; Ms. Gitanjali Singh, UN Women Representative; Ms. Sabina Yasmin, Senior Photographer, Prothom Alo; and Mr. Saiful Huq.
