In Bangladesh, martial arts—both traditional and modern—have historical roots dating back to the colonial era, when they served as a form of resistance against oppression. After independence, martial arts became more formally organized. Today, they are practiced for self-defense, especially among children and girls, and also serve as entertainment and personal development. Despite international successes, martial arts remain underfunded and underrepresented in the media. This project explores the cultural, social, and political dimensions of martial arts communities across the country.

Copyright: © Md Zobayer Hossain Joati

We Live to Fight is a powerful and richly layered visual exploration that goes far beyond documenting physical discipline—it unveils a cultural legacy of resistance, identity, and resilience in contemporary Bangladesh.
With a sharp eye and an empathetic lens, Md Zobayer Hossain Joati brings visibility to a vibrant yet overlooked world, where martial arts are more than sport: they are tools of empowerment, particularly for children and women, and a link to histories of struggle and self-determination. This project stands out in the Student category for its depth of research, strong visual coherence, and commitment to telling stories that rarely find space in mainstream narratives.