Dancers’ anger over Ekushey Padak in dance
Entertainment Report :
Dancer Arthy Ahmed’s name was announced for the Ekushey Padak in dance this year.
Since the names of the nominees for the Ekushey Padak were announced in first week of February, some people associated with the dance industry have criticised the award in this category.
Along with social media, there have been writings about it in the media.
A press conference was also held under the banner of ‘Dance Artistes of Bangladesh’.
The dance artistes of Bangladesh also demanded a reconsideration of the nomination process for the Ekushey Padak in dance in 2026.
This demand was made by Bangladeshi dancers at a press conference held at Zahur Hossain Chowdhury Auditorium of the National Press Club on Monday.
Dancer and dance director Farhana Chowdhury Baby presented six-point demands on behalf of Bangladeshi dancers at the conference. At the time, she read out a written statement.
In a written statement, she said, “We sincerely thank the concerned authorities for the decision to award the Ekushey Padak in the field of dance in 2026.
This is an important recognition for the dance art and dancers of Bangladesh and we accept this honor with great dignity.
However, the nomination of the dancer who has been announced to be awarded Ekushey Padak for his contribution to the dance field has raised deep concerns and questions in the dance arena.”
She also said, “The Ekushey Padak is a symbol of Bangladesh’s culture, language and spirit of free thought – which is awarded in recognition of lifelong pursuit, long-term contribution and undeniable influence at the national and international levels.
Especially in a deep, traditional and pursuit-based art form like dance, utmost caution, transparency and fairness are expected in giving this honour.
We note with deep concern that the name announced for Ekushey Padak in dance in 2026, its range of experience, and long-term contribution to dance practice and dance education in Bangladesh – these issues have raised questions and doubts among a large section of the dance community.
Just as Arthy Ahmed was receiving good wishes from one side after the announcement, a large section of the dance community was surprised by her award.”
After saying that there were also posts on Facebook about it, Arthy told media, “10 to 12 dancers are upset, it’s very natural.
I think there is a need for criticism in everything. I’m also upset that the gurus didn’t get it.”
At the end of the written statement, Farhana Baby called for consideration of the issues regarding Ekushey Padak, including verifying whether the Ekushey Padak was awarded in dance in 2026 as per the Ekushey Padak awarding policy.
Reconsidering the nomination process for Ekushey Padak in dance in 2026.
Taking the opinions of experienced, senior and recognised personalities in the field of dance following a transparent, fair and institutional evaluation system.
Dancers Amanul Haque, Mahfuzul Haque, Sharmin Hussain, Belayet Hossain, Tamanna Rahman, Anisul Islam, Sohel Rahman, Mehbuba Chandni, Wasek Rahman, Monira Parveen, Amirul Islam, among others, were present at the conference.