The massive fire at Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport cargo village on Saturday led to the last-minute cancellation of rock band Artcell’s much-anticipated concert in Sylhet, prompting a poignant message from the band to their fans.
The band expressed their deep regret in a social media post on Sunday, stating, “We are sorry. We were at the airport with our instruments until the very end yesterday, hoping for a call that might come at any moment. On the other hand, you were waiting with love; still, we couldn’t meet yesterday!”
The blaze, which erupted at the airport’s Cargo Village, ravaged multiple warehouses. The incident caused significant losses for numerous traders, employees, and security personnel, leaving several police and Ansar members injured.
Business owners estimate the damage could run into millions of dollars. While some flight operations resumed after 9 pm, Artcell’s scheduled flight was ultimately cancelled.
In their post, the band also highlighted their excitement and preparation for the Sylhet fans. They extended thanks to the local organizers, Flames Musical Club, praising them for being highly professional, friendly, and cooperative throughout the process.
Despite Artcell’s absence, the concert in Sylhet proceeded with the band Highway performing, and the audience paid a moving tribute by singing along to Artcell’s songs. Reflecting on this, the band wrote, “In our absence, witnessing the tribute from Highway and the audience, we became witnesses to an immense love, though we could not be a direct part of it.”
They signed off their message with “Love, Artcell.”
