A joyful celebration marking a historic school anniversary in Bangladesh turned into fear and chaos late on Friday night, 26th December, when a violent attack disrupted a major cultural event. What was meant to be a night of music and pride ended abruptly after a Muslim mob launched an assault on a live concert, leaving more than 20 people injured and forcing organisers to cancel the show immediately.

The concert was part of a cultural programme organised to celebrate the 185th anniversary of Faridpur Zilla School. The highlight of the evening was a performance by legendary rock musician James, widely regarded as Bangladesh’s top rockstar. Thousands of current students, former students, teachers, and guests had gathered on the school campus in Faridpur District to enjoy the occasion and take part in the historic milestone.

According to accounts from the organisers, trouble began around 9:30 pm when a group of outsiders attempted to enter the venue forcefully. They were not part of the invited audience and reportedly tried to break through security arrangements. When school authorities and volunteers stopped them, the situation quickly escalated. The group became aggressive and soon turned violent, creating panic among the crowd.

The attackers started throwing bricks and stones toward the stage and into the packed audience. People ran in all directions as fear spread across the campus. Most of those injured were school students who were standing close to the stage, eagerly waiting for the performance to begin. Several students suffered cuts and injuries to their heads and limbs after being struck by bricks and stones. Bloodstained clothes and cries for help painted a disturbing picture at what was supposed to be a festive event.

Despite the sudden violence, many students stood their ground. They resisted the attackers and managed to push them out of the school premises after tense clashes. Their efforts helped prevent further damage and injuries, but the situation remained dangerous for some time.

As the disorder worsened, the district administration stepped in to take control of the situation. Around 10 pm, Dr Mostafizur Rahman Shamim, who was leading the organising committee, went on stage to make an announcement. He informed the crowd that the concert had been cancelled due to serious law and order concerns. The decision, he said, was taken following instructions from the Faridpur district administration to ensure public safety.

James was escorted out of the venue under tight security. He was not injured during the incident, and none of the members of his band were harmed. Rajibul Hasan Khan, who was responsible for publicity and media for the event, later said that all preparations for the concert had been completed and the team was ready for the performance. However, they were left shocked and disturbed by the sudden attack. He stated that between 15 and 25 students were hit by stones and bricks during the violence.

Khan also said that the organisers did not yet know who carried out the attack or what their exact motive was. Local residents suggested that the attackers were opposed to music and cultural programmes and wanted such events to be stopped. While officials have not confirmed the identity of the attackers or linked them to any specific group, the incident has raised serious concerns about growing intolerance toward music and cultural activities in certain areas.

Following the cancellation of the concert, police maintained a heavy presence in and around the school campus. Their presence helped restore order later that night. As of now, no arrests have been announced in connection with the attack.

The concert was meant to be the grand finale of a two-day celebration marking the long history of Faridpur Zilla School, one of the oldest government schools in the region. The institution was established in 1840 during British rule. The celebrations began on Thursday, 25th December, with a flag hoisting ceremony, the singing of the national anthem, the taking of oaths, and a colourful procession through the town. Friday’s programme included cultural performances, a raffle draw, and the much-anticipated concert by James, which sadly ended before it could begin.