Bangladesh’s cultural landscape faced another violent blow on Friday, December 26, 2025, when a mob attacked a high-profile rock concert featuring the legendary musician James (Faruq Mahfuz Anam).
The attack, which took place during the 185th anniversary celebrations of Faridpur Zilla School, has sparked nationwide outrage over the shrinking space for artistic expression and the safety of public figures.
The Attack: From Celebration to Chaos
The concert was the grand finale of a two-day event and had drawn thousands of alumni and students.
- The Breach: Just before James was set to take the stage at 9:30 PM, a group of “outsiders” reportedly tried to force their way into the venue without tickets or invitation.
- The Violence: When security stopped them, the group began hurling brickbats and stones at the stage and the audience. Witnesses reported that the attackers attempted to seize the sound equipment and the stage itself.
- The Resistance: Students of the school reportedly formed a human chain to resist the mob, leading to a violent clash. At least 15 to 20 students were among the 25 people injured in the brick-pelting.
- The Exit: James, known as the “Guru of Rock,” was whisked away by security as the organizers, acting on the orders of the Faridpur District Commissioner, canceled the show to prevent further bloodshed.
Context: A Nation in Turmoil
The attack on James is not an isolated incident. Bangladesh has been gripped by a wave of “mob justice” and unrest following the assassination of Sharif Osman Hadi, a spokesperson for the Inqilab Moncho, who died on December 18 after being shot in Dhaka.
| Targeted Institution/Person | Date of Incident | Nature of Attack |
| Prothom Alo & Daily Star | Dec 18–19, 2025 | Arson and mob siege of headquarters. |
| Chhayanaut Cultural Center | Dec 19, 2025 | Vandalism; labeled “promoter of Indian culture.” |
| Shiraz Ali Khan (Sarod) | Dec 22, 2025 | Fled to Kolkata after venue was attacked. |
| Nagar Baul James | Dec 26, 2025 | Concert disrupted by stone-pelting mob. |
A “Chilling Effect” on Democracy
The United Nations and several international rights groups have condemned the “weaponization of public anger.” Irene Khan, the UN Special Rapporteur, warned that orchestrated violence against artists and independent media could have a “chilling effect” on the upcoming February 2026 National Elections.
While the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus has promised protection for media and cultural icons, the inability to stop frequent mob attacks has led to the resignation of high-ranking officials, including the Special Assistant for Home Affairs, Khoda Baksh Chowdhury.