The capital city of Dhaka witnessed a night of unprecedented turmoil as protesters set fire to and vandalised the historic Chhayanaut building in Dhanmondi. Occurring shortly before 2 am on Thursday, the attack represents one of the most alarming assaults on cultural heritage in recent years.
The unrest followed the announcement of the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, convenor of the Inquilab Munch, prompting heightened emotions among protestors at Shahbagh. Reports indicate that groups of demonstrators split off, with one faction moving towards Kawran Bazar and another proceeding to Dhanmondi. It was the latter group that carried out the attack on Chhayanaut, smashing interiors and setting property ablaze outside the premises.
The rapid intervention of police and military personnel prevented the situation from escalating further, though the psychological and material damage to Dhaka’s cultural community is significant. Residents and onlookers described scenes of chaos, smoke, and flames enveloping the area, leaving many in shock.
Chhayanaut’s legacy as a centre for the preservation and promotion of Bangladesh’s arts and culture makes the attack particularly troubling. Cultural leaders have voiced outrage, calling for accountability and stronger measures to safeguard artistic institutions. The incident has also sparked broader debates about the role of public protests and the responsibilities of demonstrators to maintain peace.
With additional law enforcement deployed across Dhanmondi, authorities continue to monitor the area, investigating the attack and taking steps to prevent recurrence. The event has drawn national attention, highlighting the delicate balance between political expression and the protection of cultural heritage.
In the aftermath, civil society leaders have urged calm, emphasising that violence undermines the nation’s cultural identity and that safeguarding institutions like Chhayanaut is vital for Dhaka’s social and artistic future.