Popular Bangladeshi band Shironamhin has clarified its position following the cancellation of the cultural segment of Varendra University’s second convocation in Rajshahi, amid allegations from a section of attendees that the band had deliberately skipped the show.
The university authorities decided to cancel the cultural programme on Saturday night, December 20, citing security concerns, which led to confusion and criticism among some guests present at the convocation.
In a statement posted on its verified Facebook page on Sunday, December 21, Shironamhin announced that it had completed all preparations to perform at the event and had already received 30 percent of its agreed-upon remuneration in advance.
According to the band, it was informed around 9:00 pm on Saturday that the administration was unable to ensure adequate security, considering the overall situation in the country, prompting the decision to cancel the second part of the convocation programme.
Shironamhin further stated that, as the event was organised by a university administration, the band had agreed to perform even without full payment of the honorarium, deviating from its usual practice.
The band also revealed that it had cancelled its scheduled performance at State University’s convocation concert on the same date to travel to Rajshahi. The State University event had earlier been rescheduled from December 20 to 21 due to the State Mourning Day.
In the concluding part of the statement, Shironamhin said the cancellation caused disappointment and financial loss for the band, just as it did for the guests, but firmly rejected the claim that it had intentionally withdrawn from the concert.
Notably, popular singer Porshi was also slated to perform at Varendra University’s second convocation. She later confirmed that the entire cultural programme was cancelled due to security concerns.
