Cultural Freedom at Risk in Bangladesh as Artists Face Hostility
Dhaka/Agartala, Dec 27: In Bangladesh, a fresh wave of disruptions targeting music concerts and cultural events is intensifying concerns. With performers and cultural institutions increasingly finding themselves under threat, people expressed anger and fear over the shrinking space for artistic expression in Bangladesh.
The latest incident occurred in Faridpur, where a live concert by veteran singer James was abruptly cancelled after a mob attack at the venue left more than 25 people injured.
The disruption has reignited fears about the safety of artists and audiences alike, as similar incidents continue to surface across the country.
Cultural observers note that the Faridpur episode is not an isolated case but part of a broader pattern in which music programmes, theatre events, and secular cultural platforms are being systematically targeted by hardline groups.
Over the past several months, well-known cultural organisations such as Chhayanaut and Udichi—long regarded as custodians of Bangladesh’s secular and progressive artistic traditions—have faced vandalism and arson attacks. These incidents have triggered widespread condemnation from artists, intellectuals, and civil society groups.
Concerns have also been echoed by visiting and expatriate artists. Recently, classical musician Siraj Ali Khan, a descendant of the legendary Ustad Allauddin Khan and a noted practitioner of the Maihar gharana, reportedly left Dhaka without performing, citing security concerns and an increasingly hostile environment for music and cultural activity.
In another instance, Arman Khan, son of renowned classical vocalist Ustad Rashid Khan, declined an invitation to perform in Dhaka, reportedly expressing discomfort over the growing intolerance toward artistic expression in the country.
Exiled Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasreen has publicly described these developments as alarming, warning that repeated attacks on cultural institutions and artists threaten the country’s long-standing tradition of pluralism and creative freedom.
James, one of Bangladesh’s most influential contemporary musicians and frontman of the iconic band *Nagar Baul*, has long been viewed as a symbol of the nation’s modern music movement. Analysts say that if an artist of his stature can be prevented from performing, it underscores the depth of fear now gripping the cultural community.
Artists’ collectives and rights groups argue that the continued absence of strong deterrent action is emboldening extremist elements, resulting in self-censorship, cancelled events, and declining international cultural exchanges.
Cultural analysts warn that unless safety for artists and audiences is ensured, Bangladesh risks losing its reputation as a vibrant centre for music, theatre, and creative expression in South Asia.
As incidents of disruption and intimidation continue, voices within the cultural sector are urging authorities to take decisive steps to protect artistic freedom and restore confidence among performers, institutions, and the wider public. (With inputs from IANS)