Situated in Feni, Bangladesh, the project by Vector Plinth unfolds against the backdrop of one of the most crucial war zones in 1971. A poignant reminder of the sacrifices made, the project draws inspiration from Feni Government College students’ portrayal of the war’s horrors in a school play titled “Goalpost.” The architects envisioned an abstract monumental goalpost, symbolizing the suspended martyrs, to revive the memory of those who gave their lives for independence.
The Architectural Symphony: Unfolding Chapters
The project employs an “L” shaped zoning strategy, resembling the pages of a captivating book with four distinct chapters. Each phase serves a unique purpose, contributing to an overarching narrative. “A Walk to Remember” for memories, “Walls of Silence” for reflection, “Recalling the History” as a storyteller, and “Journey of Freedom” for liberation. This deliberate orchestration forms a harmonious tapestry in the grand design, creating an immersive experience.
Monumental Symbolism: A Call to Remember
The monument, adorned with the Bengali quote “এক সাগর রক্তের বিনিময়ে, বাংলার স্বাধীনতা আনলে যারা, আমরা তোমাদের ভুলবো না,” serves as a testament to the sacrifice. Its towering height beckons people from afar, providing a space for collective remembrance and connection to history. The monument seamlessly integrates with the school courtyard, offering easy accessibility and a profound experience for visitors.
Layers of Symbolism: Stories Carved in Stone
The monument’s façade tells stories etched in golden Bangla font, reflecting on the sacrifices made during the war. The contrasting 40′ black wall, marked with blood-red punches, symbolizes the grief and gunshots endured by the martyrs. Sixteen steps lead to a monumental plaza, adorned with suspended copper cylinders representing different stages of the war.
Illuminating the Journey: Cylinders of Significance
The suspended copper cylinders, representing stages like চেতনা (Cognition), জাগরণ (Awakening), সংগ্রাম (Warfare), বেদনা (Agony), জয় (Victory), স্বাধীনতা (Independence), illuminate the journey of Feni’s immortal warriors. This visual representation adds layers of significance to the narrative, making it a poignant exploration of history.
Zig-Zag Pathways: A Walk Through Hardships
The landscape design features a diagonally arranged amphitheater, memorial plaques, walkways, and seating surrounded by greenery. The “Zig-Zag” pathway symbolizes the hardships faced by the immortal heroes of Feni. The public gathers in the amphitheater for performances and commemorations, engaging with the memorial plaques that narrate the history and sacrifices of 31 Bir Muktijoddha (Freedom-Fighters).
Commemorating Roots: From Abandonment to Vibrancy
The once-abandoned area has transformed into a vibrant space where people socialize and memorialize Feni College’s history. Shattering tales, like that of a man seeking his brother in 1972, picking up a skull from the piles of bones, resonate with the youth. The monument stands as a living tribute, ensuring that the sacrifices of Feni’s roots are never forgotten.
Conclusion
In Feni, Bangladesh, Vector Plinth’s architectural masterpiece stands not only as a monumental structure but as a living narrative, inviting people to engage, reflect, and remember the profound history that shaped the region. The project beautifully blends architectural design with historical significance, creating an enduring space for remembrance and connection to the past.
