A student-led initiative has restored the appearance of Selim Al Din Mukta Mancha, a historic open-air amphitheatre at Jahangirnagar University (JU), following years of neglect and lack of maintenance.

The cleaning and beautification initiative was led and funded by Mohammad Shakil Sharder, an undergraduate student of the Department of Finance and Banking at the university.

Built in 1980, Selim Al Din Mukta Mancha is considered the first open-air theatre in South Asia designed in the style of ancient Greek amphitheatres. The venue was established under the initiative of prominent playwright Selim Al Deen, the founding chairperson of the university’s Department of Drama and Dramatics. It was later named after him.

Over the years, the amphitheatre had gradually lost its appeal due to a lack of maintenance and repair. Its walls were covered with promotional posters, diminishing the aesthetic appeal of the cultural venue.

Through the student-led initiative, the amphitheatre’s iconic red facade has been restored. The students have also urged everyone to refrain from putting up posters on its walls to preserve the venue’s appearance.