Straybird, a literary and cultural club under the Department of English, Stamford University Bangladesh, unveiled a literary magazine ‘Parnassus’ on Sunday in the Department of English.
The event began with a warm welcome address by the editor of the magazine Zobaida Nasreen, said a press release.
Before the welcome speech, the organisers (StrayBird team) dearly acknowledged the significance of the recent students’ movement that overthrew the autocratic government and established student-citizens’ rights highlighting the highest sacrifices made by the martyrs. A minute of silence was observed to honour the souls of those martyrs.
The ceremony was also attended by distinguished guests, including Ekushey Padak-winning recitation artiste Bhashwar Bandyopadhyay, Professor Sayma Arju (chairperson of English Department) and senior faculty members Sheikh Nahid Neazy, Mohammad Azizul Haque, Zakia Noor Matin, Aleeya Tamzida and Minhajul Abedin, among others.
As part of the programme, the hosts engaged the audience with an overview of Mount Parnassus as a symbol of artistic achievement in Greek mythology.
The mythological context made Mount Parnassus a symbol of divine inspiration for poets, writers, painters, musicians and artists throughout the centuries.
The magazine’s name ‘Parnassus’ emphasised the fitting tribute to the spirit of literary and intellectual excellence that Straybird seeks to foster.
The ceremony continued with a heartfelt speech from the convenor of Straybird, Aleeya Tamzida, who talked about the vision of the club and the collaborative efforts that contributed to the publication of the magazine.
The editor of ‘Parnassus,’ Zobaida Nasreen, addressed the gathering, sharing insights into the magazine’s editorial journey for literary enthusiasts.
The guest of honour, Bhashwar Bandyopadhyay, also delivered an inspiring speech, emphasising the importance of literary activities with the university.
The much-awaited moment of the ceremony arrived as Zobaida Nasreen conducted the unveiling of ‘Parnassus’.
The magazine, described as a testament to the creativity and dedication of all students - contributors, came to light amid applause and excitement.
The unveiling of ‘Parnassus’ was not just a celebration of a new literary publication but a reaffirmation of the enduring power of literature and arts.
Straybird believes that ‘Parnassus’ will become a beacon of creativity and talent reflecting the collective voices of its contributors and readers to explore new horizons of literary, critical and intellectual thoughts.
