Dhaka, Dec 24 (V7N) – Cultural activists staged coordinated protests in Dhaka and across Bangladesh on Tuesday, condemning a series of violent attacks on Bengali cultural institutions and progressive artistic practices, and demanding exemplary punishment for those responsible.

In the capital, renowned cultural organisation Chhayanaut organised a solidarity gathering titled “Songs of Unity” in front of its cultural complex at 4:00 pm. Artists, writers, intellectuals, journalists, members of cultural organisations, and teachers, students and guardians from Nalanda School participated in the programme. Prominent cultural figures, including Khurshid Alam, Bhaswar Bandyopadhyay, Shafi Ahmed, Aditi Mohsin, Mofidul Haque, Makbul Hossain, Abdus Wadud, Rafiqun Nabi and Bulbul Islam, were present.

In his remarks, Chhayanaut President Dr Sarwar Ali said recent attacks on Udichi Shilpigosthi, Baul communities and cultural institutions, along with disinformation campaigns, amounted to a direct assault on Bangladesh’s cultural heritage and national identity. He warned that attacks on the media and the killing of innocent people had seriously undermined national security, urging society to unite from all sectors to protect culture and identity.

The gathering featured performances of patriotic and protest songs, including “O Amar Desher Mati,” “Amar Mukti Aloy Aloy,” “Chol Chol Chol,” and other iconic compositions, concluding with the national anthem.

Separately, Bangladesh Udichi Shilpigosthi organised protest rallies and torch processions in Dhaka and multiple districts, denouncing attacks on its offices, Chhayanaut premises and media houses. In Dhaka, Udichi’s central council held a demonstration and torch procession at Satyen Sen Square near the National Press Club at 4:30 pm.

Speakers at the rally alleged that Udichi’s central office had been completely destroyed in an arson attack, resulting in the loss of important documents, musical instruments and assets accumulated over its 57-year history. They claimed that threats and incitement against Udichi intensified following attacks on media outlets and cultural institutions after the death of Inquilab Mancha leader Osman Hadi, while authorities failed to ensure adequate security.

Udichi acting president Mahmud Selim said reactionary and communal forces opposed to Bangladesh’s independence were behind the attacks, aiming to weaken democratic and cultural movements. He vowed that Udichi would continue its movement until a proper investigation is conducted and those responsible are brought to justice. The programme ended with a torch procession through key streets of the city.

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