‘We want to sing without fear’: Chhayanaut president

Chhayanaut has expressed deep concern over a series of attacks on the country’s cultural sphere.

Speaking from Ramna Batamul on the morning of Pahela Baishakh, Chhayanaut President Sarwar Ali called for the building of a fearless and tolerant society. He said, “We want a society where people can sing freely and where cultural practices can flourish without obstruction.”

At the traditional Pahela Baishakh celebration held this morning at Ramna Batamul, he made these remarks in his presidential speech. In the 1433 Bengali year event, Chhayanaut strongly reiterated its call for cultural freedom, tolerance, and a fearless society.

In his address, Sarwar Ali highlighted several concerning incidents that took place over the past year, warning that threats to cultural practices and social harmony are gradually increasing.

He said that although last year’s Pahela Baishakh and Victory Day programmes were held peacefully, the situation deteriorated shortly afterward, with cultural spaces coming under repeated attack.

He mentioned incidents such as the vandalism of musical instruments at Chhayanaut, the tearing of books belonging to children at Nalonda School, and arson at newspaper offices.

In addition, referring to the attack on Udichi Shilpigoshthi and the harassment of Baul artistes, he said these incidents reflect growing intolerance in society. Recalling the bomb attack on the Pahela Baishakh celebration at Ramna Batamul in 2001, he said the painful memory still haunts the nation and serves as a reminder of the insecurity surrounding cultural gatherings.

Highlighting the inseparable connection between music and Bengali identity, Sarwar Ali said, “Music has always been a companion to the joys and sorrows of Bengalis. Songs have given us courage in all struggles, including the Liberation War and movements for rights. Music unites people regardless of religion or caste. But a group is now trying to silence this voice through fear and intimidation.”

He expressed regret that there is an attempt to detach Bengali music from its own heritage. He added that intolerance in society is increasing, while fear of organised harassment over freedom of expression is weighing heavily on people’s minds.

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In his speech, Sarwar Ali also referred to the international context, saying, “Under US-Israeli oppression, the Persian civilisation is now facing a severe crisis. The people of the world are distressed and fearful. On this first morning of the New Year in our homeland, everyone wishes for world peace.”