Dhaka’s exciting winter concert season has been hit by a major crisis. Event promoters had initially announced around six concerts featuring international artists from India and Pakistan. However, one after another, these shows are being scrapped or postponed. The central problem is security: organisers are failing to obtain the necessary administrative permissions for these large-scale public gatherings. So far, three concerts have been officially called off, and serious concerns are mounting over the remaining three events.
The string of cancellations began with the postponement of Pakistani singer Ali Azmat’s show, scheduled for November 14. Azmat arrived in Dhaka three days early for the ‘Legends Live in Dhaka’ concert, which was also due to feature James. However, on the day itself, the organisers cited security issues and announced the postponement, leaving fans bewildered.
Next to fall was the concert by the popular Pakistani band Jal. Organised by Stage Co., their show at the Swadesh Arena on 300 Feet Road was set for November 28. The ‘Sound of Soul’ event also promised performances from local favourites Warfaze and Level Five. This, too, was postponed due to ongoing security concerns and a lack of final clearance.
Most recently, the concert of Indian singer Anuv Jain, scheduled for December 12 at the Courtside Madani Avenue on 100 Feet Road, was cancelled by the organisers, Hypenation, on November 25. In all cases, the primary reason given is the official failure to obtain requisite security permissions from the authorities.
Now, attention turns to the last two confirmed international acts: Pakistani band Kavish and singer Atif Aslam. Kavish is scheduled to perform at the ‘Wave Fest: Feel the Winter’ on December 5, sharing the stage with Shironamhin and Meghdol.
The most anticipated show is that of Atif Aslam, organised by Main Stage for December 13. Rumours have spread on social media that this concert might also face cancellation, with speculation that the organisers hadn’t secured venue approval. Despite these unsettling rumours, Main Stage has issued a firm statement, confirming that the Atif Aslam concert will proceed on the scheduled date, assuring fans that all permits are being finalised.
Despite the reassurances from promoters, the viability of these remaining concerts remains highly suspect, especially after three consecutive major shows have been derailed. This uncertainty has not stopped organisers from continuing to sell tickets online. While the international scene is in turmoil, Bangladeshi bands and artists are maintaining a consistent schedule, playing regular concerts outside of Dhaka and performing at various corporate and private functions within the capital, keeping the domestic music scene alive. This crisis signals a tough period for promoters and the international music landscape in Dhaka.