Bangladesh on the boil: Cultural event at historic school turns violent as mob attacks concert; 20 injured

Bangladesh unrest: A cultural celebration marking the 185th anniversary of a historic school in Bangladesh spiralled into disorder late Friday night after a mob disrupted a live concert by renowned rock musician James Nagar Baul, forcing authorities to cancel the event. At least 20 persons were injured in the violence.

James, widely known by his stage name Nagar Baul and considered one of Bangladesh’s most influential rock artists, was scheduled to headline the closing ceremony of Faridpur Zilla School’s anniversary celebrations. The programme, attended by a large gathering of students, alumni and local residents, was abruptly called off moments before the performance could begin.

Violence erupts moments before performance

According to eyewitnesses and officials, the singer was expected to take the stage around 9.30 pm when a group of unidentified individuals attempted to enter the venue without authorisation. When they were stopped by organisers and security staff, the situation quickly escalated.

Bricks and stones were thrown towards the stage area and the crowd, triggering panic among attendees. Several students standing close to the stage sustained injuries as people rushed to escape the violence.

Administration orders cancellation

With tensions rising, the district administration intervened and ordered the immediate cancellation of the concert to prevent further unrest. Around 10 pm, organising committee convener Dr Mostafizur Rahman Shamim announced from the stage that the programme had been stopped due to security concerns.

James was safely escorted out of the school premises under police protection. Officials confirmed that neither the artist nor his band members were harmed during the incident.

Rajibul Hasan Khan, who heads the publicity and media wing of the anniversary committee, said organisers were taken by surprise as all arrangements had been made in advance. He stated that between 15 and 25 students were injured after being hit by stones and debris.

“We are yet to identify who was behind the attack or what triggered it. Our priority was to ensure safety, which is why the programme was discontinued,” he said.

Opposition to cultural events suspected

Local said the attackers objected to music and cultural programmes, demanding that such events be discontinued. While authorities have not officially confirmed the identities or motives of those involved, the incident has renewed concerns about growing hostility towards cultural gatherings in certain areas.

The police remained deployed around the venue late into the night and managed to restore order. No immediate arrests were reported.

The disrupted concert was meant to conclude a two-day celebration commemorating 185 years of Faridpur Zilla School, one of the oldest government-run educational institutions in the region, founded in 1840 during the British colonial period.

The anniversary events began on Thursday with ceremonial flag hoisting, rendition of the national anthem, oath-taking sessions and a festive procession across the town. Friday’s schedule featured cultural performances, a raffle draw and the highly anticipated appearance by James, which ultimately could not take place.