A stone suddenly fell in front of me: Srabonno Towhida

The concluding day of the grand celebrations marking the 185th anniversary of Faridpur Zilla School and its reunion programme descended into chaos yesterday, abruptly ending what was meant to be a festive occasion.

Thousands of former and current students had gathered at the venue, eagerly awaiting a performance by renowned musician James, when disorder suddenly broke out. The incident led to injuries and ultimately forced organisers to shut down the event.

Host Srabonno Towhida, who was present on stage at the time, later shared her experience in a social media post. According to her account, the situation escalated just as James was about to begin his performance. 

"I was conducting the raffle draw when suddenly a large stone fell right in front of me. In that moment, everything changed," she wrote. "Nearly 15,000 people were trying to enter the venue. Around 15 students were injured, suffering head wounds. For more than three hours, everyone stood there confused, scared, and uncertain, hoping the situation would improve. But finally, the organizers had to shut the event down."

Although both the host and James reportedly received their full payment, Srabonno said the incident left a deep emotional impact.

"Money cannot heal the emotional pain, the shock, or the disappointment we all felt. It cannot compensate for the hurt of those who were injured, or the heartbreak of thousands who waited so patiently to see Nagor Baul James perform," she wrote. "In the end, it was not just an event that was cancelled; it was a moment that left a deep emotional scar."

According to the organising committee, a group of outsiders attempted to force their way into the venue after being denied entry. When prevented by security, they allegedly began throwing bricks and stones and attempted to take control of the stage. Students of Faridpur Zilla School reportedly resisted the attack, eventually forcing the assailants to retreat.

Rajibul Hasan Khan, convenor of the anniversary event's publicity and media subcommittee, told bdnews24 that all preparations for the concert had been completed.

"We had completed all preparations to make James's concert a success. But we still do not understand why the attack happened, what prompted it, or who was behind it," he said.

Read more

James concert in Faridpur called off after attack

He added that at least 15 to 20 students of Faridpur Zilla School were injured after being struck by bricks during the incident.