“Protibadi Baul Sondha”: Students Rally for Freedom and Protection of Baul Art in Dhaka

A powerful cultural event was held at Dhaka University on Monday evening to protest the recent attacks on Baul artists, who are revered for their contributions to Bengali folk culture. The event, titled “Protibadi Baul Sondha”, took place at the Payra Chattar of the Teacher-Student Centre (TSC) and saw a strong turnout of students from various Dhaka University organizations.

The program was organized by a group of students, with Monowar Hossain Pranto, convener of the Dhaka University Surja Sen Hall unit of Chhatra Dal, playing a key role in bringing the event to fruition. Other members of different TSC-based organizations participated individually to lend their support to the cause.

Monowar Hossain Pranto spoke passionately at the event, emphasizing that the Baul philosophy represents the very soul of Bengal’s folk traditions. “Baul philosophy embodies humanism, equality, and free thinking,” he stated. “For centuries, Bauls have preached a message of tolerance and introspection, standing above the barriers of religion, caste, and social division. Their teachings have been central in making our society more cooperative and peaceful.”

He also expressed grave concern about the recent attacks on Baul artists, describing these assaults as not just personal assaults on individual artists but as a direct attack on the culture and heritage of Bangladesh. “These attacks threaten the essence of our society,” he said. “The Bauls are the heart of our cultural identity, and these attacks on them undermine our shared values of respect, human dignity, and unity.”

One of the other key organizers, Ferdous Siddique Saymon, convener of the Sir AF Rahman Hall unit of Chhatra Dal, also condemned the violence. “Arts and culture are foundational to any democratic society. Attacks on them are unacceptable,” he said. “We must protect the freedom of expression and cultural security for all citizens. A society built on religious intolerance will never thrive.”

Abid-Ur Rahman Mishu, a member of the Surja Sen Hall unit of Chhatra Dal, who also played an integral role in organizing the event, reiterated that Baul philosophy goes beyond just art; it is a movement for equality, freedom, and humanity. “It is imperative that the state, society, and all political spheres come together to safeguard this philosophy and the freedom of Baul artists,” he said.

The organizers also raised several key demands at the event, including:

An immediate, impartial, and transparent investigation into the attacks on Baul artists.

Legal action against the perpetrators of violence.

Ensuring the safety and protection of Baul artists and other cultural communities.

Coordinated social initiatives aimed at combating hate, incitement, and violence in Bangladesh.

The event was a clear message from the students that they will continue to stand firm in defending the cultural and artistic traditions of Bangladesh, demanding action to protect the creative rights of all its citizens.