A chilling picture of how dangerous the situation had become for Indian artists amid the violence in Bangladesh has come to light in the words of a young tabla player who returned to Kolkata. The artists trapped during the program in Dhaka had to hide their identities, change their names and maintain silence, only then could they return to their country safely. This story is not just about an artist, but about the fear that forces common people to live amidst violence.
Tabla player Mainak Biswas told that the situation in Dhaka suddenly worsened. The sarod artiste with whom he had gone somehow managed to escape, but the rest of the team got trapped in the violence. Due to demonstrations, vandalism and anti-India atmosphere, he had to stay hidden in the hotel for 48 hours. When he had to go out, he hid his Indian identity and adopted a local name.
Program canceled and mob attack
The concert, scheduled to be held at the cultural center in Dhaka’s Dhanmondi area, was canceled after a violent mob attack. Sarod player Shiraz Ali Khan somehow returned to Kolkata, but his mother and the rest of the team, including Mainak Biswas, were stuck there. Musical instruments were broken and the premises were heavily vandalized.
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Saved life by hiding identity
Mainak Biswas told that while going out, he did not allow his Indian identity to be revealed. While booking a taxi, he changed his name and took help from the hotel staff. He says that anti-India sentiment was clearly felt on the streets of Dhaka. If the identity had been revealed through speech, the situation could have become more dangerous. Remaining silent became his greatest protection.
Why was the part enraged?
This violence broke out after the assassination of Inquilab Manch spokesperson Sharif Usman Hadi. After the death of this leader associated with the movement in July 2024, unrest spread across the country. During this period, media institutions and cultural centers were also attacked. Instability in Bangladesh politics and controversies related to the era of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina made the atmosphere more sensitive.
Got relief after reaching the airport
The rest of the team members sat in the airport lounge in fear for several hours. Amidst reports of demonstrations on the streets and sudden gathering of crowds, every step had to be taken thoughtfully. Mainak was also worried about his tabla, as he had seen pictures of instruments being broken. It was only then that the tabla was found safe at Kolkata airport and he felt relieved.
Returning to Kolkata, Mainak Biswas said that he would soon perform at an event, but the memories of Bangladesh would follow him for a long time. He said that despite sharing language and culture, this experience of fear has shaken him to the core. They are not able to muster the courage to go there again until the situation becomes normal.
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