Four bands to perform for winter relief concert in Dhaka

Despite a noticeable decline in concerts this winter due to security concerns and administrative restrictions, a special outdoor music event is set to take place in Dhaka with a humanitarian purpose.

Titled “Kuashar Gaan”, the charity concert will be held today (January 17) at the central playground of the University of Dhaka. The event is jointly organised by the Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) and Spirits of July.

Four popular bands — Chirkutt, Avash, Ashes and KrishnaPaksha — will take the stage to raise funds for people affected by the harsh winter.

According to the schedule, Krishna Paksha will perform at 6 pm, followed by Avash at 7 pm, Chirkutt at 8 pm, and Ashes from 9 pm onwards. The concert will conclude with Ashes’ performance.

Every winter, Bangladesh’s music scene traditionally comes alive with concerts across cities and rural areas. However, this season has seen a sharp drop in such events. Many concerts scheduled towards the end of last year were cancelled after failing to receive administrative clearance over security issues.

Concerns intensified last month when James had to leave without performing at a school reunion concert in Faridpur following an attack by outsiders, further fuelling uncertainty around outdoor shows.

Organisers said “Kuashar Gaan” is a charity-driven initiative aimed at collecting funds to distribute winter clothing among underprivileged and cold-stricken people.

Earlier this month, on January 11, another charity concert titled “Sur e Bona Sweater” was held at the TSC ground. Organised by the Dhaka University Band Society, that event collected financial donations as well as new and used clothes and blankets. Performers included Joy Shahriar, Lalon Mahmud, D-Rockstar Shubho and Sohan Ali.

As winter deepens, organisers hope initiatives like “Kuashar Gaan” will not only keep live music alive but also extend warmth to those who need it most.