A planned screening of ‘Bonolota Express’, one of the most commercially successful and widely discussed Bangladeshi films released during Eid-ul-Fitr, was halted in Brahmanbaria after opposition from local religious groups prompted concerns over law and order.
The special screening, organised by the Brahmanbaria Film Society, was scheduled to take place on May 30 at Annada Government High School. However, organisers were forced to suspend the event after threats and objections from a section of madrasa students. A separate screening planned in Kasba Upazila was also stopped by local authorities, who reportedly deployed seven police vehicles to the area.
Those opposing the screenings argued that the event had generated significant controversy on social media. Leaders of the Brahmanbaria District Qawmi Student Unity Council publicly criticised the programme, claiming that such events conflicted with the district’s religious and social environment and should not be permitted under any circumstances. The group also announced precautionary protest programmes.
District authorities said the decision to suspend the screening was taken because of concerns that escalating tensions and online opposition could lead to a deterioration in the law and order situation. The Deputy Commissioner said discussions were continuing with the relevant parties and that a decision would be taken after assessing the overall situation.
In a statement, organisers said the Brahmanbaria Film Society had temporarily postponed the screening after venue authorities withdrew permission because of unforeseen circumstances. Following discussions with local MP Engineer Khaled Mahbub Shyamal and members of the administration, the programme was formally suspended. Organisers said a new date would be announced soon.
The incident has drawn criticism from 10 cultural organisations in Brahmanbaria, the Bangladesh Federation of Film Societies and several public figures, including MP Rumeen Farhana.
Actor and lawyer Peya Jannatul told The TIMES of Bangladesh that the incident represented more than an attack on arts and culture.
“I believe this is an attempt to push our country towards Afghanistan,” she said. “The government must deal firmly with such incidents.”
Speaking at a human chain organised in protest on June 1st, Rumeen Farhana said Brahmanbaria had long been regarded as a cultural centre, yet cultural activities in the district repeatedly faced obstacles. She alleged that a particular group had deliberately blocked the screening of Bonolota Express, describing it as a family-friendly film suitable for audiences of all ages.
“I have watched the film myself,” she said. “It is appropriate for children, teenagers and adults alike. The question is why the screening of such a film was stopped.”
However, counter-demonstrations were organised on Monday and Tuesday against both Farhana and the organisers of the screening, highlighting the divisions surrounding the issue.
Local cultural activists expressed disappointment at the administration’s decision. Fahim Muntasir, president of the cultural organisation Sonali Sokal, said it was troubling that a film approved by the national certification board could be prevented from being screened with the assistance of local authorities.
“Brahmanbaria is not outside the laws of the state,” he said. “If film screenings can be stopped today, songs and other cultural activities may face similar restrictions in the future.”
Mohammad Nurullah, general secretary of the Bangladesh Federation of Film Societies, argued that the government itself was not opposed to cinema. Instead, he said, a particular group was attempting to place religion and film culture in direct opposition.
The film’s director, Tanim Noor, expressed confidence that the matter would be resolved. He said the government appeared sincere in its approach and suggested that administrative delays caused by the Eid holidays had slowed progress.
He added that he remained hopeful of a positive outcome in the near future.
