"Tolerance" Festival in Bangladesh Canceled Following Threats from Islamist Groups

Bangladeshi Mystic Sect Cancels Music Festival Amid Islamist Threats

A Bangladeshi mystic sect known for promoting religious tolerance has canceled its popular music festival following threats from Islamist groups. The decision marks yet another setback for religious harmony in the country, which has faced heightened tensions since the student-led revolution in August.

The overthrow of long-time autocratic Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina triggered widespread unrest in Muslim-majority Bangladesh. The political shift emboldened Islamist groups, who had been suppressed for years, to assert their presence more openly.

In the chaotic aftermath of Hasina's ouster, reprisals targeted the Hindu community—perceived as key supporters of her regime—and Islamic hardliners launched attacks on Sufi shrines.

Devotees of Lalon Shah, a 17th-century Bengali social reformer and poet whose songs emphasize religious harmony, had planned a two-day "mela" (festival) in Narayanganj later this month. Last year, the event attracted over 10,000 attendees who celebrated the Baul philosophy, which blends elements of Hinduism and Sufism. However, this inclusive philosophy has drawn ire from some Islamist groups.

Narayanganj Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Mahmudul Hoque explained that city authorities withheld permission for the festival, citing potential violence and security concerns. "This area is a stronghold of groups with opposing views," he noted.

Festival organizer Shah Jalal expressed disappointment, saying it was the first time the event had to be canceled.

Abdul Awal, a leader of Hefazat-e-Islam, a coalition of influential Islamist organizations, led protests earlier this month demanding the festival's cancellation.

"We cannot permit activities that contradict the true spirit of Islam," Awal declared. "These so-called celebrations promote indecency, with women singing and dancing, gambling, and the smoking of cannabis," he alleged.

Lalon's followers, known as Bauls, are ascetic singers who travel on foot, performing songs and relying on alms. Despite their peaceful philosophy, they are often branded as heretics by Islamist groups.

Cultural activist Rafiur Rabbi condemned the cancellation. "The decision to stop the Lalon Mela is a bad omen for all of us. It’s disheartening that the government is caving to majority pressure. Does this mean minorities will lose their voice entirely?"

However, interim government cultural affairs adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki defended the administration's efforts. "The fall of Sheikh Hasina and her departure from the country created a power vacuum, leading to a series of incidents. But we have worked to restore order," he stated.