A much-anticipated concert by renowned Bangladeshi rock artist James was abruptly cancelled on Friday night after violence broke out at Faridpur Zilla School, leaving at least 25 people injured.
The incident occurred around 9:30 pm during the closing-day celebrations marking the school’s 185th anniversary. James, along with his band Nagar Baul, was scheduled to perform at the school premises when a group of unruly individuals allegedly tried to force their way into the venue.
According to witnesses and organisers, tensions escalated after outsiders were barred from entering the concert area. The group reportedly began throwing bricks and stones and attempted to take over the stage, triggering chaos at the venue. Several students of Faridpur Zilla School were injured while trying to resist the attackers.
Later, around 10:00 pm, organising committee convener Dr Mustafizur Rahman Shamim announced from the stage that the concert had been cancelled following instructions from the Faridpur district administration, citing security concerns.
Rajibul Hasan Khan, convener of the event’s publicity and media sub-committee, said the organisers had completed all preparations to ensure a successful concert. “We still cannot understand why and by whom the attack was carried out. At least 15 to 20 students of our school were injured by brick attacks,” he said.
He added that the decision to cancel the concert was taken to prevent further deterioration of the situation.
The two-day anniversary programme began on Thursday morning with the hoisting of national and commemorative flags, rendition of the national anthem, oath-taking, and a colourful procession featuring banners, festoons, and horse-drawn carts across the town. Friday’s events were supposed to conclude with a raffle draw, cultural programmes, and James’s live performance.
Established in 1840 during British rule, Faridpur Zilla School is one of the oldest government schools in the region and has long played a significant role in the area’s education, culture, and social movements.
