The nationwide event organized by Bangladesh Udichi Shilpigosthi on Friday was a significant act of protest in response to recent calls for changing the national anthem of Bangladesh. The event saw people across the country singing the national anthem “Amar Shonar Bangla” simultaneously, with the national flag hoisted and patriotic songs performed as well.
The central event, held in front of the National Press Club in Dhaka, drew participation from various organizations, including Khela Ghar and media artists, as well as ordinary citizens. This event was a direct response to a controversial statement made by Abdullahil Amaan Azmi, a former military officer and the son of former Jamaat-e-Islami leader Ghulam Azam. Azmi had questioned the relevance of the national anthem and the legitimacy of the constitution, sparking widespread outrage.
In his speech at the event, Prof Badiur Rahman, president of Udichi’s central committee, condemned the proposal to change the national anthem, labeling it a conspiracy by forces defeated in the 1971 Liberation War. He warned that accepting such a proposal would lead to further actions threatening the nation’s independence and sovereignty. Other speakers echoed this sentiment, vowing to resist any attempts to undermine the country’s independence.
The event was a powerful display of national unity and a reaffirmation of Bangladesh’s commitment to its independence and sovereignty.
