Symbolic Narratives in Motion: Rickshaw Painting as Art in Chattogram, Bangladesh

Abstract

This article explores the artistic value of the treasured world of rickshaw painting in the commercial capital of Bangladesh, Chattogram and aims at demonstrating its essential role in representing Bangladeshi art and culture as an intangible cultural heritage. Utilizing a mixed-method approach, the study discusses over twenty paintings gathered from Chattogram's (one of Bangladesh's major cities) streets. This academic initiative provides a window into the conscious and the unconscious of the rickshaw artists and rickshaw pullers, and a practical lens for understanding the cultural significance of rickshaw painting as art, reaffirming its timeless and widespread impact. The article reveals findings that accentuate the cultural and psychological depth within these paintings, highlighting their beauty and elegance as symbolic narratives that go bevond mere aesthetics. The research demonstrates that rickshaw paintings act as a cultural mirror, reflecting the rich heritage of Bangladesh. It surpasses a surface-level exploration, emphasizing that these artistic and symbolic representations are more than fleeting images; rather, they are enduring reflections of Bangladeshi identity that transcend temporal and spatial boundaries. This article contributes to scholarly discussions, especially in cultural studies by reaffirming the symbolic narratives and lasting artistic significance of rickshaw painting in Chattogram.