Asif Akbar Slams Obscene Lyrics on BTV’s ‘July Uprising’ Concert

Khabor Wala Desk

Published: 7th August 2025, 5:29 PM

Asif Akbar Slams Obscene Lyrics on BTV’s ‘July Uprising’ Concert

Photo: Collected

A clip of a live broadcast by state-owned Bangladesh Television (BTV) has been circulating widely on social media since yesterday, drawing significant public backlash. The clip captures a segment of a concert held on 5 August at Manik Mia Avenue, Dhaka, in commemoration of ‘July Uprising’ Day. During the performance, several artists were heard using explicit and inappropriate English lyrics on stage—language deemed unsuitable for public broadcast.

Controversy Surrounding BTV Broadcast

The fact that such content aired live on BTV, a national broadcaster, has sparked intense debate. Many have questioned the appropriateness of airing such language on a government channel. The reaction on social platforms has been swift and sharp, with cultural figures and celebrities voicing serious concerns.

Singer Asif Akbar, known for his outspoken views, posted a Facebook status around 1:00 PM on 7 August, clarifying his stance. Sharing the controversial video, he wrote:

“Vulgar lyrics in the name of hip-hop and broadcasting it on BTV does not align with Bangladeshi culture. Be warned.”

His comment, “Sadhu Sabdhan” (meaning “be very cautious”), acted as both a cultural admonition and a public warning.

Public Reaction and Artist Commentary

Asif’s post drew strong support from his followers, many of whom echoed his disapproval:

Commenter	Reaction
Mehedi Hasan	“How could such obscene songs be aired on BTV?”
Sohel Mehdi	“Absolutely disgraceful. The organisers must be held accountable.”
Kamrul Hasan	“We’ve accepted many elements of vulgar pop culture—but hip-hop on BTV? No. Perhaps they didn’t even understand the lyrics.”

Several other personalities also chimed in with scathing remarks:

Singer Sinthi Saha shared the video, expressing visible frustration.
Lyricist and artist Lutfor Hasan commented:

“Saw a video from the Manik Mia Avenue concert. A bunch of thugs yelling ‘f*cking guys’ in broken English. How are such people allowed to perform on a public stage?”

Film actor Simon Sadik also added his voice to the criticism.

Asif Akbar’s Ongoing Musical Journey

Amidst the controversy, Asif Akbar embarked on a new chapter in his music career, resuming regular international tours after a long break. On 6 August, he departed for the Maldives, where he is set to perform at the Hulhumale Synthetic Ground on 8 August.

He revealed that his performance will include his latest romantic number, ‘Joto Bhalobashi Tore’, written by Prosanjit Mondol, with music composed by Amit Kar. The song explores romantic themes and features a visually engaging music video.

Recent Releases by Asif Akbar

Song Title	Lyricist	Composer	Remarks
Joto Bhalobashi Tore	Prosanjit Mondol	Amit Kar	Romantic theme, to be performed in Maldives
Bheeshon Kanna Pay (10 July)	Hasanuzzaman Masum	Kishore Das	Asif appeared in the video himself
Mon Je Chhuyechhe Mon (Eid)	Asif Iqbal	Raja Kaashef	Duet with Indian singer Sadhana Sargam

The video for Mon Je Chhuyechhe Mon was directed by Chandan Roy Chowdhury and produced by Jewel Morshed.

As Asif continues to release music in quick succession, interest among his fanbase has significantly risen. But at the heart of this growing musical momentum lies a burning cultural question—is the unfiltered airing of profane lyrics on national television ever justifiable?

His recent Facebook post, and the viral video that prompted it, has become a focal point of national conversation, once again bringing the role of state media and cultural accountability into sharp focus.