If the game and the music are stopped, what is left?

The Bangladesh Group Theater Federation and theater workers yesterday held a protest at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy in response to the abrupt suspension of the play Nityapurāna during its performance on November 2, following protests by a group of individuals.

The demonstration, organized by the Federation, started outside the academy at 4 p.m. During the event, a group of unknown persons threw eggs at the protesters, including prominent theater personality Mamunur Rashid.

Eyewitnesses said the incident took place around 5 pm, just as Mamunur was delivering his speech.

He said, “If drama, music and painting are stopped, what is left? A group could lead the country in that direction. Theater activists should oppose this.”

As he spoke, he was interrupted by a commotion as unidentified individuals shouted, “Catch him, catch him!”

Protesters responded by chanting “Natok Moder Odhikar Rukhbe Natok Shaddhyo Kar,” demanding the right to perform freely.

More than a hundred theater workers took part in the demonstration outside the Shilpakala Academy. After the eggs were thrown, Mamunur Rashid said, “We will not end this meeting. The game will continue inside and we will guard the outside. We will tackle these miscreants.”

Federation General Secretary Kamal Bayezid said: “As Mamun bhai was nearing the end of his speech, a group suddenly started throwing eggs and small stones.”

Some in the group accused the theater workers of supporting the previous Awami League government and opposing the anti-discrimination student movement.

Bayezid said about 25 people tried to block the protest but refused to identify themselves. Police and military personnel on the ground quickly intervened and dispersed the tension without any injuries or arrests.

In response, the Federation announced a nationwide demonstration on November 15, during which a play will be staged at Shilpakala Academy.

Bayezid said a press conference will be held at the BSA seminar hall today at 11 a.m. to discuss the incident and the ongoing challenges facing theater workers.

Ramna Thana Inspector Payel Hossain confirmed the commotion but said no injuries or arrests were reported.