অন্তর্যাত্রা (ANTARJATRA) -TAREQUE MASUD MEMORIAL AND CULTURAL CENTER

BRAC University, Department of Architecture, Dhaka

Project idea

Tareque Masud was a Bangladeshi film director, producer, screenwriter, and lyricist who was born in Nupur Village in the Faridpur District. He was a pioneer in his field and a role model for independent filmmakers. Through his works, he aimed to inspire and enlighten young minds about Bangladesh's liberation war, as well as to show them the beauty of the country, its surrounds, its historic past, and the beauty of connections between the creator's creations.

The importance of preserving his legacy and works has gained attention after his passing. So, the Tareque Masud Memorial Trust has taken an initiative to preserve his works and memories while also completing unfinished works in order to promote understanding, his perspective, and his dedication to our country and culture. The memorial is also needed to let the young generation know about his life and dedication towards the country

Project description

The primary objective of this project is to preserve Tareque Masud's works and memories, completing unfinished projects to share his knowledge, vision, and dedication to our country and culture.

In preserving Masud's legacy, the design incorporates the philosophy of neo-contextuality, aiming to maintain the history and philosophy of Tareque Masud by engaging the general public, cultural activists, researchers, and tourists. The proposed site, Tareque Masud's ancestral home in Nurpur, Bhanga, near the Dhaka-Khulna highway in the Faridpur district, spans approximately 4.2 acres. This site holds sentimental value as Masud's family residence, featuring two water bodies and an open field where he grew up, along with his final resting place. Its proximity to key landmarks enhances accessibility, making it strategically positioned to attract various visitors.

The chosen site, being the courtyard of Masud's ancestral home in Nurpur, becomes significant due to its sentimental value and serves as a memorial, preserving his memory landscape. The site's unique characteristics, such as its intersection between two communal spaces, add depth to the project's context, symbolically connecting Masud's life with the broader community and urban environment.

In summary, the location not only preserves Tareque Masud's memory but also serves as a dynamic intersection fostering cultural exchange and appreciation within the living history of the region.

The project aims to embody Masud's philosophy by portraying the history of the liberation war, providing a platform for the expression of Masud's philosophy, and integrating cultural aspects into the design.

To achieve these objectives, the layout of the center is determined by considering functions and activities in its surroundings. The design focuses on establishing connections between crowd-generating spaces, rejuvenating water bodies, and integrating natural resources into the layout. The zoning of the complex revolves around strategic connection points, dividing it into three major zones for assembly functions, cultural facilities, and educational/research facilities. Connectivity between these zones is facilitated by paths, plazas, and bridges spanning different levels.

The overall design goal is to create a subtle atmosphere that blends harmoniously with the surrounding environment while incorporating Tareque Masud's philosophy through zoning and material choices.

Technical information

The site is oriented from West-South to East-North. To enhance ventilation and lighting, sun-cutting elements like vertical louvers, perforated screens, and brick jails are incorporated into the east, west-south, and west facades. Additionally, the predominant material chosen for the facade is brick.