The School of Business at the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB) organised a pop-up festival titled ‘The Abol Tabol Marketplace’ on 14 November at the university’s permanent campus, marking the 139th birth anniversary of Bengali writer and poet Sukumar Ray.

Organised by BBA students as part of ‘Project Nonsense’, the event combined business activities with art and cultural celebrations inspired by Ray’s literary works and distinctive style of humour.

The marketplace featured student-managed stalls selling handmade products, creative merchandise and food items. Students also showcased various business ideas and projects, gaining practical experience in marketing, financial management, operations and customer engagement.

Renowned playwright and actor Alok Basu attended the event as the chief guest. ULAB Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Shamsad Mortuza and Dr A F Wazir Ahmad, head of the Department of Business Administration, were also present, alongside faculty members.

The guests visited the stalls and interacted with participating students.

A children’s art competition was also held as part of the celebration, with renowned artist Chitra Sultana encouraging young participants to express their creativity through art.

The event aimed to give students practical business experience while introducing younger generations to Sukumar Ray’s literary and artistic legacy.