Sri Lanka Chapter
05-07-2026
On 5 June 2026, the third international launch of Rafiq Azam: Old Dhaka – New Story: Architecture in Bangladesh, edited by Rosa Maria Falvo and published by Rizzoli New York, was held at Barefoot, Colombo, Sri Lanka. Bringing together architects, academics, students, and cultural practitioners from both countries, the event served as a platform for architectural dialogue and cultural exchange between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. The program was coordinated by renowned Sri Lankan architect Madhura Prematileke as part of the ongoing Connecting Creativity initiative.
This edition of the Connecting Creativity book launch series was especially significant due to the presence of leading figures from Bangladesh’s architectural community, including Prof. Shamsul Wares, Ar. Jalal Ahmed, Ar. Mahfuzul Huq Joglul, and Ar. Bikash Saud Ansary. A delegation of young architects from SHATOTTO architecture for green living also participated, contributing to an intergenerational exchange of ideas and perspectives.
Earlier in the day, Prof. Rafiq Azam delivered a keynote lecture at the Town Hall, Municipal Council, Colombo, upon the invitation of the Mayor of Colombo, Ms. Vraîe Cally Balthazaar. His address explored the “Art of Negotiation” and the role of architecture in shaping humane, environmentally responsive, and culturally rooted cities. Prof. Shamsul Wares, Ar. Jalal Ahmed, Ar. Mahfuzul Huq Joglul, and Ar. Bikash Saud Ansary also attended the session and participated in an open public discussion that followed the lecture.
The evening program commenced with an introduction by Colombo Coordinator Architect Madhura Prematileke, followed by an introductory video. Remarks were delivered by Goodwill Ambassador Architect Zannat Jui and Prof. Shamsul Wares, who reflected on the significance of Prof. Azam’s architectural contribution and the importance of sustained regional dialogue within contemporary practice. The presence of the Mayor of Colombo, Ms. Vraîe Cally Balthazaar, further enriched the occasion.
A screening of the short docu-fiction Between Light & Earth, directed by Shankha Dasgupta, offered an intimate insight into Prof. Azam’s architectural philosophy and creative journey, revealing the spatial, social, and emotional dimensions that define his practice.
The official unveiling of Old Dhaka – New Story followed, celebrating the monograph not merely as a publication but as a cultural and intellectual bridge connecting architectural ideas, histories, and experiences across borders. The launch marked a significant moment in the growing architectural and cultural relationship between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
Prof. Azam then presented a selection of his works and shared the design philosophy that has shaped his architectural journey over more than three decades. His presentation highlighted the relationship between architecture, landscape, climate, memory, and community, demonstrating how locally rooted practice can contribute meaningfully to global architectural discourse.
This was followed by a panel discussion featuring Architect Madhura Prematileke, Mayor Vraîe Cally Balthazaar, Dr. Sasanka Perera, Dr. Milinda Pathiraja, and scholar architect Chamin Kalubowila. The discussion explored themes of regional identity, climate-responsive design, urban culture, and the evolving role of architecture in South Asia. Distinguished guests Ar. Jalal Ahmed, Ar. Bikash Saud Ansary, and Ar. Mahfuzul Huq Joglul also shared their reflections, adding depth to the dialogue through their professional perspectives.
The evening concluded with a book-signing session, fostering meaningful dialogue, professional exchange, and cultural connection among participants. Bringing together architects, academics, students, and civic leaders, the event reaffirmed architecture’s capacity to connect people, places, and ideas while strengthening the growing architectural relationship between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
