By Neha Shamim
On June 5, 2026, Barefoot in Colombo, Sri Lanka, became a gathering place for architectural dialogue, cultural exchange, and creative reflection as the third international launch of RAFIQ AZAM: OLD DHAKA, NEW STORY, Architecture in Bangladesh took place. Edited by Rosa Maria Falvo and published by Rizzoli New York, the monograph’s Colombo presentation brought together architects, academics, students, and cultural practitioners from Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, celebrating architecture as a shared language that connects histories, landscapes, and communities.
As part of the ongoing Connecting Creativity initiative, the event was coordinated by renowned Sri Lankan architect Madhura Prematileke, creating a platform for meaningful regional dialogue and exchange. More than a book launch, the evening reflected the growing conversation around architecture’s role in shaping humane environments, preserving cultural memory, and responding thoughtfully to the challenges of contemporary cities.
Rooted in the historic lanes of Old Dhaka, Prof. Rafiq Azam’s architectural journey has always been shaped by a deep connection to place, nature, and human experience. His practice explores the relationship between architecture and the intangible qualities of life, light, water, air, landscape, and memory. Through a philosophy that embraces sensitivity over spectacle, Azam’s work continues to demonstrate how architecture can emerge from cultural identity while contributing to a wider global discourse.
The Colombo edition held special significance with 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. Their participation, alongside a delegation of young architects from SHATOTTO architecture for green living, created an intergenerational exchange of ideas, reflecting the importance of shared knowledge and evolving architectural 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. Exploring the theme of the “Art of Negotiation,” the lecture examined the role of architecture in creating cities that are environmentally responsive, socially meaningful, and deeply connected to their cultural contexts. The session was followed by an open public discussion, where architects and audiences engaged with ideas surrounding urban development, sustainability, and the future of human-centered design.
Traditional Sri Lankan gift presented to Prof. Rafiq Azam by the Mayor
The evening program commenced with an introduction by Colombo Coordinator Architect Madhura Prematileke, followed by an introductory video presentation. Remarks from Goodwill Ambassador Architect Zannat Jui and Prof. Shamsul Wares reflected upon Prof. Azam’s contribution to contemporary architecture and the importance of continued regional collaboration. The presence of the Mayor of Colombo further added significance to an evening dedicated to cultural and architectural connection.
Goodwill Ambassador Architect Zannat Jui
Moment of exchange as Prof. Rafiq Azam gifts the book to the Mayor
Colombo Co-ordinator Architect Madhura Prematileke
A screening of the short docu-fiction Between Earth and Light, directed by Shankha Dasgupta, offered audiences an intimate glimpse into Prof. Azam’s creative philosophy and architectural process. Through a poetic exploration of space, landscape, and human interaction, the film revealed the emotional and social dimensions that define his approach to architecture.
Felicitation shawl to the mayor of Colombo, Ms. Vraîe Cally Balthazaar
The official unveiling of OLD DHAKA, NEW STORY followed, marking the monograph not simply as a publication, but as a cultural and intellectual bridge between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. The launch celebrated the exchange of architectural ideas across borders, highlighting shared concerns of climate, identity, craftsmanship, and the relationship between tradition and modernity.
Prof. Rafiq Azam then presented a selection of his works, reflecting on more than three decades of architectural practice. His presentation explored the connections between architecture, ecology, memory, and community, illustrating how a locally rooted practice can resonate within a global architectural landscape.
The program continued with 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 regional identity, climate-responsive design, urban culture, and the evolving role of architecture in South Asia. Reflections from Ar. Jalal Ahmed, Ar. Bikash Saud Ansary, and Ar. Mahfuzul Huq Joglul further enriched the conversation, adding diverse perspectives from the architectural community.
The evening concluded with a book-signing session, allowing guests and participants to continue conversations beyond the formal program. Bringing together architects, academics, students, and civic voices, the Colombo launch reaffirmed architecture’s ability to connect people, places, and ideas while strengthening the cultural relationship between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
As the international journey of OLD DHAKA, NEW STORY, Architecture in Bangladesh continues, the next chapter will unfold in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The upcoming launch will continue the spirit of architectural exchange and cultural dialogue, extending the monograph’s reach across new geographies while carrying forward the shared vision of connecting creativity, communities, and ideas through architecture.
