Dhaka’s music scene has faced yet another disappointment as popular Pakistani singer Atif Aslam’s concert, scheduled for 13 December, has been cancelled due to security concerns and administrative hurdles. This marks the latest in a series of postponed performances in the Bangladeshi capital over the past month, which has also seen shows by Azmat Ali, Anub Jain, Pakistan’s Jal Band, and Kabish deferred.
Atif Aslam broke the news on Thursday night via Facebook, expressing regret to his Bangladeshi fans. He wrote:
“Dear Bangladeshi fans, it is with great sadness that I inform you we will not be performing at the concert scheduled in Dhaka on 13 December. The organisers and management authorities were unable to secure the necessary local permits, security clearances, and logistics arrangements.”
Event Details and Context
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Artist | Atif Aslam |
| Date | 13 December 2025 |
| Venue | China-Bangladesh Friendship Exhibition Centre (CBFC), Purbachal, Dhaka |
| Organisers | Main Stage Inc (primary), Spirit of July (co-organiser) |
| Cause of Cancellation | Failure to obtain security clearances and necessary permits |
| Charitable Component | 40% of total proceeds to July Shaheed Smriti Foundation for families of martyrs and injured from the July movement |
| Other Performers | Music director Fuad, Nemesis Band, and other Bangladeshi artists |
Impact and Background
The concert had been meticulously planned, with organisers claiming that all arrangements were nearly complete, including venue setup, equipment logistics, and artist scheduling. It was intended to be a major cultural event, with a charitable component whereby 40% of total revenue would be donated to the July Shaheed Smriti Foundation, supporting families of martyrs and injured individuals from the July movement.
Alongside Atif Aslam, Fuad, Nemesis Band, and other notable local musicians were scheduled to perform, promising a blend of Pakistani and Bangladeshi talent.
Despite these preparations, the concert was ultimately called off when the organisers failed to receive the required security clearances and local administrative permissions, leaving fans and artists disappointed.
As of now, no formal statement has been issued by the organisers regarding rescheduling or refunds. The cancellation adds to a growing list of high-profile postponed concerts in Dhaka, highlighting the challenges faced by international performers in securing timely permissions and ensuring security arrangements in the city.
Fans are left hopeful that organisers may rearrange the event in the near future, preserving both the entertainment and charitable objectives of the show.