A cultural protest event titled “Protestive Baul Evening” was held on Monday evening at the Teachers-Students Centre (TSC) of Dhaka University. The event was organised by students from various university organisations to protest recent attacks on Baul artists.
The main organiser of the event was Monowar Hossain Pranto, coordinator of the Chottogram Unit of Surya Sen Hall, Dhaka University. Members from several TSC-based organisations also participated individually in the protest.
Monowar Hossain Pranto said, “Baul philosophy is a symbol of Bengal’s folk culture, humanism, and equality. For centuries, it has enriched our tradition of free thought. Rising above religion, caste, and community, Baul artists have taught self-reflection and equality, which has made our society more tolerant and cooperative.”
He added, “The recent attacks on Baul artists have deeply concerned us. Such attacks are not just against individual artists but represent a clear assault on our national heritage, culture, and social tolerance.”
Another organiser, Fardous Siddiqui Simon, coordinator of Sir A.F. Rahman Hall Chottogram Unit, said that attacks on art and culture are unacceptable in a democratic society. “We are committed to ensuring equal respect, freedom of thought, and cultural safety for all citizens of Bangladesh. A stable and progressive nation is built on culture and human values, not on religious intolerance.”
Another organiser, Abidur Rahman Mishu, member secretary of Surya Sen Hall Chottogram Unit, said, “Baul philosophy is not merely an art form; it is a path of free thought, equality, and humanity. The state, society, and political arena must collectively protect this path.”
The programme raised four key demands:
Prompt, impartial, and transparent investigation into attacks on Baul artists.
Legal action against the perpetrators.
Protection of Baul and other cultural communities.
Coordinated social initiatives against hate, provocation, and violence.
The Protestive Baul Evening sent a clear message from Dhaka University students that they are determined to safeguard cultural and artistic freedom and firmly oppose attacks on Baul artists.
SS