10 cultural organisations condemn halt of Brahmanbaria’s ‘Bonolota Express’ screenings

Ten cultural organisations in Brahmanbaria have strongly condemned the cancellation of screenings of the film Bonolota Express, describing the incidents as evidence of growing intolerance toward cultural practices and freedom of expression.

In a joint statement issued on Monday, the organisations expressed deep concern over the suspension of two separate screenings of the government-approved film in Brahmanbaria town and Kasba upazila.

According to the statement, a special screening of filmmaker Tanim Noor's Bonolota Express was scheduled to take place on May 30 at Annada Government High School under the initiative of the Brahmanbaria Film Society, with prior permission from the school authorities.

However, the organisers alleged that a section of people launched a social media campaign against the screening by invoking and misrepresenting religious sentiments, prompting the venue authorities to withdraw their approval.

The statement further noted that another attempt to screen the film in Taltola village of Kasba upazila on the same day was halted following what the organisations described as unwarranted interference by the local administration.

Calling the incidents deeply troubling, the cultural organisations said Brahmanbaria has long been recognised as a centre of cultural heritage and communal harmony, producing distinguished figures such as Ustad Alauddin Khan and poet Al Mahmud.

“It is unfortunate that a film made by Brahmanbaria-born filmmaker Tanim Noor could not be screened in his own hometown,” the statement said.

The organisations pointed out that Bonolota Express received certification under the Bangladesh Film Certification Act 2023 and has already been screened and appreciated both at home and abroad.

They also emphasised that cinema is an internationally recognised art form that plays a vital role in reflecting social realities, patriotism, and human values.

Referring to BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman's recent visit to a cinema hall with his daughter to watch a film, the statement said such gestures demonstrate a positive attitude toward cinema and cultural practice.

“In such a context, hostile attitudes toward films are undesirable and unacceptable,” the statement added.

Reaffirming their commitment to democratic values and freedom of expression, the signatories condemned what they described as intolerance and extremist behaviour by any group seeking to obstruct cultural activities.

Read more

Rumeen Farhana to join protest against ‘Bonolota Express’ screening halt

The organisations that signed the statement are Brahmanbaria Anushilan Sangskritik Kendra, Khelaghar Asor, Udichi District Unit, Jatiya Rabindrasangeet Sammilan Parishad Brahmanbaria District Committee, Bangladesh Mahila Parishad, Abaroni Abritti Charcha Kendra, literary organisation Kobir Kolom, Charan, Sonali Sokal, and Ajker Sangskriti Sangathan.