Live Show Turns Ugly: Popular Bengali Singer Harassed on Stage

In a deeply troubling incident that has sparked concern across cultural and artistic circles, acclaimed West Bengal singer Lagnajita Chakraborty was allegedly harassed and threatened while performing live on stage at a cultural programme in the Purba Medinipur district. The incident occurred in full public view, raising serious questions about the safety of performing artists and the growing intolerance faced by creative expression.

The event took place last Saturday evening at South Point Public School, Bhagabanpur, where Chakraborty had been invited to perform at a cultural programme. According to the singer, the evening began on a positive and orderly note. The programme commenced at around 7:00 pm and proceeded smoothly for nearly 45 minutes. She performed several songs without interruption and was formally felicitated by the organisers after her first three performances.

However, the atmosphere took a disturbing turn midway through the event. Chakraborty stated that after completing the seventh song on her playlist, she paused briefly to interact with the audience before moving on to the next number. It was at this moment that an unexpected and alarming incident unfolded.

The singer alleged that shortly after she performed the popular song “Jago Ma” from the film Devi Chowdhurani, a man later identified as Mehbub Mallick suddenly climbed onto the stage from the audience area. He reportedly attempted to physically assault her while hurling abusive language and making aggressive remarks. Witnesses present at the venue reacted swiftly, restraining the individual and escorting him off the stage before the situation could escalate further.

In a written statement, Chakraborty revealed that the accused shouted offensive comments, including a remark suggesting that she should stop performing devotional songs and sing something “secular” instead. The singer described the experience as profoundly distressing, stating that the public humiliation and aggression left her mentally shaken and fearful.

Following the incident, Chakraborty immediately withdrew from the stage and later that night visited Bhagabanpur Police Station, where she filed a formal complaint in the form of a General Diary (GD). Confirming the development, Mithun Kumar Dey, Officer-in-Charge and Acting Superintendent of Police at Bhagabanpur, stated that an investigation was promptly initiated.

According to the latest updates, the police have arrested the main accused in connection with the incident and are continuing their inquiry. The episode has reignited discussions around artist safety, freedom of expression, and the urgent need for stricter security measures at public cultural events.

Key Details of the Incident