The BRICS TimesAmid ongoing turmoil in Bangladesh, singer James’s concert in Faridpur was called off abruptly after an enraged mob stormed the venue and launched an attack
Attacks Lead to Concert Cancellation
The concert by popular singer James in Faridpur, about 120 kilometers from Dhaka, was cancelled. This decision comes against a backdrop of increasing attacks on artists and cultural institutions in Bangladesh. The event was originally scheduled for 9:00 PM on Friday night. It was meant to celebrate a school’s anniversary, according to local reports. Attackers tried to forcefully enter the venue. They began throwing bricks and stones at the attending crowd.
Local Resistance and Cancellation
Local residents confirmed that students attempted to resist the attackers. However, the musical event ultimately had to be cancelled. This was done following directives from local authorities. Noted writer Taslima Nasreen strongly condemned this growing trend in Bangladesh. She posted on social media platform X, stating, “Cultural centre Chhayanaut has been burnt to ashes. Today Jihadis stopped famous singer James from performing at an event.”
Taslima Nasreen Mentions Siraj Ali Khan
She further brought up the case of Siraj Ali Khan. “Siraj Ali Khan visited Dhaka a few days ago. He is the grandson of Ali Akbar Khan, son of the world-famous Ustad Allauddin Khan. Siraj Ali Khan himself is a distinguished artist of the Maihar Gharana,” she explained. “He returned to India without presenting any program in Dhaka. He announced he would not return to Bangladesh until artists, music, and cultural institutions were safe.”
Armaan Khan Declines Dhaka Invitation
Taslima Nasreen added another recent example. “Two days ago, Ustad Rashid Khan’s son, Armaan Khan, also rejected an invitation to Dhaka. He also made it clear that he does not want to step into Bangladesh. He cited the country being full of music-hating Jihadis.”
James’s Immense Popularity in Bangladesh
James is a celebrated Bangladeshi singer-songwriter, guitarist, and composer. He is also well-known as a playback singer. He serves as the lead vocalist, songwriter, and guitarist for the rock band ‘Nagar Baul’. He has delivered several hit Hindi film songs. These include ‘Bheegi Bheegi’ from the movie ‘Gangster’ and ‘Alvida’ from ‘Life in a Metro’. He holds immense popularity across Bangladesh.
