Group Theatre Federation condemns ‘shadow ban’ on Mamunur Rashid

Bangladesh Group Theatre Federation has strongly condemned the recent remarks made by Syed Jamil Ahmed, Director General of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, advising legendary actor Mamunur Rashid to take a temporary break from performing on the Academy's stage. 

In a formal statement released Thursday, the Federation called the suggestion undemocratic and an affront to the freedom of artistic expression.

Jamil Ahmed's remarks, although unofficial, have ignited outrage within the cultural community, with many interpreting it as a dangerous precedent. In their press release, the Federation noted that this recommendation echoed the controversial decisions of a former Director General, who had previously taken authoritarian actions to cancel performances and withhold venue permits. They warned that such a trend would pose a grave threat to the country's independent cultural practices.

The Federation urged theatre enthusiasts to remain calm, united, and steadfast in their commitment to ensuring that theatre performances continue uninterrupted, despite these challenges. 

"The Bangladesh Group Theatre Federation has, since the post-independence era, championed national interests and social responsibility through its theatrical endeavors. We firmly believe that theatre is our right, and it will continue to thrive," read the press statement, signed by General Secretary Kamal Bayazid.

The statement concluded with a powerful declaration: "Long live theatre!"

Controversy around Jamil's remarks

Syed Jamil Ahmed, however, insists his comments were made out of personal concern for Rashid and were not an official order. "I made the suggestion based on my personal relationship with him. I'm deeply hurt that this has turned into an issue," Jamil said to bdnews24.com.

His suggestion, however, has unleashed a wave of criticism on social media, with numerous theatre artists and cultural figures expressing their disapproval. Many posts have emerged condemning Jamil's stance as harmful to free artistic expression, and some even alleged that veteran actor Ferdousi Majumdar had received similar advice, though she denied such claims publicly.

Jamil clarified that his advice was intended to protect Mamunur Rashid from potential backlash. "During the July protests, some people became critical of Rashid because of a statement he made. I wanted to make sure that such a gifted artiste is not put in an uncomfortable or disrespectful position."

Mamunur Rashid, known for his principled stand on artistic freedom, has also spoken out, declaring that "theatre cannot be stopped out of fear." He recalled a recent incident when performances of the play "Nityapurana" were halted, only to resume after significant public outcry. "We will protest as a community if anyone attempts to block the performances," he vowed.

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Jamil Ahmed advises Mamunur Rashid to ‘step back’ amid growing tensions at Shilpakala