Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy Suspends All Cultural Programmes

Bangladesh’s cultural calendar has been dealt a significant blow as the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA) has announced the indefinite suspension of all its performances and exhibitions due to unavoidable circumstances. The decision, which came into effect late last week, has disrupted several ongoing and scheduled cultural events, including theatre productions, exhibitions, and other artistic programmes hosted at the Academy’s venues across the capital.

The announcement followed closely on the heels of the opening performance of the stage play Gandhasutra, which premiered on Thursday evening at the Studio Theatre Auditorium of the National Theatre Hall within the Shilpakala Academy complex. The production was staged by the theatre troupe Obolokon, marking a much-anticipated return to the stage for the group. The inaugural show drew attention from theatre enthusiasts and cultural commentators alike, raising expectations for its subsequent performances.

However, the second scheduled performance, due to take place on Friday evening, was abruptly cancelled after the Academy withdrew permission for the use of the auditorium. As a result, neither Gandhasutra nor any other programmes could proceed.

Speaking on the matter, the play’s director, Kazi Taufiqul Islam Emon, explained that the cancellation was beyond the troupe’s control. He stated that the Academy had remained closed due to the prevailing disorderly situation in the country, leaving the organisers with no option but to call off the performance. He expressed disappointment but emphasised that public safety and institutional directives must take precedence.

Earlier on Friday morning, Obolokon issued a statement on its official Facebook page, conveying deep regret over the cancellation. The post cited the country’s unstable situation as the reason for suspending the show scheduled for 19 December. The troupe also reassured audiences that those who had purchased tickets in advance would be contacted directly and provided with full refunds, underscoring their commitment to transparency and audience trust.

Confirming the broader institutional decision, Dipak Kumar Goswami, Director of the Academy’s Theatre and Film Department, stated that all events and exhibitions under the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy have been postponed indefinitely. He added that no new schedule would be announced until further instructions are issued, leaving the future of many cultural programmes uncertain.

The suspension represents a serious setback for artists, performers, and audiences alike, as the Shilpakala Academy is widely regarded as the heart of Bangladesh’s state-supported cultural life. For now, the artistic community waits in hope that stability will return, allowing stages, galleries, and auditoriums to once again come alive.

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