Entertainment Report :
Under the banner of ‘Shilpo, Sthapona O Shilpangan Dhongsher Biruddhe Obosthhan’ (Stand Against the Destruction of Art, Installations and Cultural Spaces) theatre activists, practitioners, musicians and artistes gathered on Wednesday afternoon in front of the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy to protest the recent acts of nationwide vandalism and communal attacks.
Singing songs and holding various posters, they voiced their opposition to the destruction of cultural works across the country. The protest march proceeded from Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy to the National Press Club.
In a statement, the artistes demanded swift action to protect citizens and end the violence that became rampant following the cessation of the former government body.
They highlighted that miscreants have been setting fires, vandalising and looting in various parts of Bangladesh, including state structures, police stations, and historical landmarks like Dhaka University’s Swadhinata Chattar and the historical Shoshi Lodge in Mymensingh.
Attacks on dissenters, looting and burning of their properties were also reported.
The statement read, “Reports indicate that up to seven theatre groups have been burned down. The burning of Prachyanat’s theatre activist and the home and instruments of Joler Gaan’s front-man Rahul Ananda is not just a matter of condemnation but also deep regret. There have been attacks on media offices and journalists, many of which remain unreported. Angry mobs are attacking police in various stations and local Awami League leaders. We, as artists, cultural organisers, and theatre groups from across Dhaka and the country, express our extreme concern and uncertainty.”
The artists called for the immediate implementation of a democratic political system in the country. They urged, “We envision a cooperative, discrimination-free Bangladesh where equality, human dignity, and social justice are the guiding principles of governance. We are committed to resisting any form of terrorism together. Mutual harmony is a key goal in our state governance. Vigilance is necessary to ensure that this unprecedented historic mass uprising is not tarnished. Responsible citizens must remain alert to ensure that revelries do not give rise to any form of vengeance.”