As the country is eagerly awaiting for the 13th National Election tomorrow, prominent figures from Bangladesh’s entertainment industry have shared their views and reactions on the ongoing election atmosphere, highlighting public enthusiasm, expectations for fairness, and hopes for safety and inclusion.
Filmmaker and the outgoing Interim Government’s Cultural Affairs Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki described the nationwide mood as unprecedented. “The country has never before seen this kind of festival around an election. This is what it means to truly reclaim ownership of the country. Bangladesh, you beauty. Oh, how many young lives have been set beneath the horizon for this celebration! Let us at least remember that.”
Director Ashfaque Nipun wrote, “Personally, I believe that even if we can ensure 90 percent of a free and fair election, that alone would be the biggest reform. If people can properly cast their votes every five years, all political parties will stay in line. Corruption will not cross the limit because we can vote them out next time.”
“This time, expatriate voting has also been added. The power of our ballot is so strong that even the mighty past autocrat had to use many tricks to prevent us from voting,” he added.
Dhallywood’s popular actress Bubly stated: “So far, we do not know who is coming to power. As a conscious citizen of Bangladesh, my wish is that we remain safe. There should be no discrimination between men and women.”
She added, “Overall, I want a peaceful situation. We want everyone’s social and state security to be ensured. From that expectation, I hope for a fair election.”
Popular actress Sabnam Faria, in a lighthearted tone, humorously asked her social media followers, “Please let me know quickly who you all are voting for! Then it will be easier for me to decide whether I should wear a saree or an abaya on Pohela Falgun!”
Singer-songwriter-composer and publisher Joy Shahriar shared his personal voting plan to the daily TIMES of Bangladesh, stating that his constituency is Mohammadpur, Dhaka-13 and that he intends to vote in the afternoon.
“Growing up in Nayapaltan, I have seen political scenarios firsthand as a local. I can recall that the elections were festive back then with everyone’s participation and competitive enthusiasm; and after such a long time, we are witnessing that kind of festivity again now,” Joy Shahriar told ToB.
The reactions reflect a mix of optimism, civic awareness, and public engagement from members of the cultural sphere as the election period unfolds.
