Bangladesh’s national arts body has brought its activities to a halt, as concerns grow over the safety of cultural spaces in the capital following recent attacks on prominent organisations.
The Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy announced on Friday that all programmes and exhibitions have been suspended until further notice. The decision comes in the wake of violent incidents targeting Chhayanaut and Udichi, developments that have sent shockwaves through the country’s artistic community.
An official memorandum, signed by Purnolakha Chakma, Deputy Director for Administration, cited the prevailing security situation as the reason for the suspension. According to the notice, all events under the academy’s banner will remain on hold until further instructions are issued.
The statement also referred to remarks by Professor Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser of the interim government, who has declared a day of state mourning on Saturday, December 20, following the death of Sharif Osman bin Hadi. While the observance was noted in the memorandum, no specific guidance was given on how it might affect the duration of the suspension.
For artists, performers and audiences alike, the announcement represents a significant pause in the country’s cultural calendar. The Shilpakala Academy regularly hosts theatre productions, music concerts, dance performances and visual art exhibitions, and its closure leaves many planned programmes in limbo.
No timeline has been announced for the resumption of activities, adding to uncertainty within the creative sector. The suspension has further intensified discussions among artists and cultural organisers about security, freedom of expression and the future of public cultural gatherings in Bangladesh.
