China exhibition on relics captivates Bangladesh

Bangladeshis have been captivated by the photo exhibition, Radiant Stars: Lingjiatan Culture Photo Exhibition from Anhui, China, inspiring greater interest in Chinese culture and encouraging deeper cultural exchanges.

Located in Ma'anshan city in East China's Anhui province, Lingjiatan is a heritage site dating back some 5,300 to 5,800 years. Since it was discovered in 1985, more than 3,000 pieces of exquisite relics, such as jade wares, stone artifacts and potteries, have been unearthed from the site.

The exhibition features 50 display panels marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Bangladesh, alongside 38 sets of jade replicas — such as eagles, dragons, and figurines, presenting a comprehensive picture of the rich historical heritage and profound cultural significance of the Lingjiatan site.

"I love Chinese culture and Chinese songs, so I am very happy that the exhibition has come to this national museum," says Md Rubel Haque, a visitor. "I have learned a lot about Chinese culture from this exhibition, and we are enjoying discovering and appreciating it."

Sarwar Alam, a student from Tongi, on the outskirts of Dhaka, describes the exhibition as thrilling and impressive.

"This is a great opportunity for us to learn about China's traditions and culture," Sarwar says, expressing hope that more exhibitions will be organized.

Mazharul Islam, a student learning Chinese at North South University, visited the exhibition with his teachers and parents.

Noting that the profound heritage of Chinese culture strongly resonates with Bangladeshi culture, he says: "Through the rich archaeological displays, artifact images and replicas, we gain insight into China's civilization more than 5,000 years ago, and about the wisdom of Chinese ancestors in philosophy, art and social organization."

"In my view, to truly understand a nation, one must study its cultural background and education," says Mazharul, adding that the Chinese people are not only friendly and lovely, but also possess remarkable business acumen and ideas that should be learned by Bangladesh. "That is why we gather here: to exchange and learn, to draw knowledge and inspiration together."

During the opening ceremony on Aug 25, Syeda Rizwana Hasan, adviser to Bangladesh's Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Ministry of Water Resources, said the Lingjiatan jade figurines "whisper across 5,000 years that humanity is one family, bound by creativity and community."

She added, "For Bangladesh, the Lingjiatan exhibition resonates deeply. It mirrors our own civilizational journey in pursuit of meaning, order, and community."