The renowned Bangladeshi band Shironamhin was slated to perform at the cultural segment of the Second Convocation of Barendra University in Rajshahi. However, on the evening of Saturday, 20 December, the university administration announced the cancellation of the event due to security concerns. Following this abrupt announcement, rumours began circulating among attendees and the public that the band had intentionally opted out of the performance. Shironamhin, however, has categorically refuted such claims.
In an official statement posted on their verified Facebook page on Sunday, 21 December, the band confirmed that they had completed all preparations for the concert and had even received 30% of their performance fee in advance, as per the contractual agreement with the organisers.
The statement elaborated:
“At approximately 9 PM yesterday, we were informed that, considering the overall situation in the country, the administration was unable to guarantee adequate security. Consequently, the cultural segment of the second convocation was cancelled.”
Shironamhin further clarified that, since the event was organised by the university, they were prepared to perform even without receiving their full fee, had the concert gone ahead. Notably, the band had also deferred another performance at the State University in Rajshahi on the same day, which had been rescheduled from 20 December to 21 December in observance of National Mourning Day.
The statement concluded with the band expressing sincere regret:
“We share the disappointment felt by students and guests at the sudden cancellation and acknowledge the financial loss incurred. However, any suggestion that Shironamhin deliberately abstained from performing is entirely baseless.”
In addition to Shironamhin, the popular singer Porshi was also scheduled to perform at the convocation. Ultimately, the entire cultural programme was cancelled due to security concerns. Both the university administration and the band emphasised that this decision was not taken by any party intentionally, but solely to ensure the safety of attendees.
While the unexpected cancellation caused considerable disappointment among students and guests, the university has assured that future events will benefit from more robust security arrangements and better coordination, minimising the likelihood of a similar situation recurring.