We want a society where songs can be sung without fear: Chhayanaut President

Chhayanaut has expressed deep concern over a series of attacks on the country’s cultural sphere, calling for a fearless and tolerant society where cultural expression can flourish freely.

Speaking at the traditional Pahela Baishakh celebration, marking the Bengali New Year 1433, at Ramna Batamul on Tuesday morning (April 14), Chhayanaut President Sarwar Ali said, “We want a society where people can sing without fear and where cultural practices can grow without obstruction.”

In his address, Sarwar Ali highlighted several troubling incidents over the past year. Although last year’s Pahela Baishakh and Victory Day events were held peacefully, the situation deteriorated soon after, with repeated attacks on cultural institutions.

He cited vandalism of Chhayanaut’s musical instruments, destruction of children’s books at Nalanda School, and arson attacks on newspaper offices. He also referred to attacks on Udichi and harassment of Baul artists, describing these as signs of growing intolerance.

Recalling the 2001 bomb attack at Ramna Batamul, he said the painful memory still haunts the nation.

Emphasising the deep connection between music and Bengali identity, he said songs have inspired courage in times of struggle, including during the Liberation War. “Music unites people beyond religion and ethnicity, but a group is trying to silence this voice through fear,” he added.

He also warned of attempts to detach Bangla music from its cultural roots and a growing climate of organised harassment over freedom of expression.

Referring to the international context, Sarwar Ali said Persian civilisation is facing serious threats amid US-Israeli aggression.