Bangladeshi celebrities have spoken out against the recent violence, urging protesters to exercise restraint and channel their anger without targeting media outlets or cultural institutions.
The coordinated attacks involved arson, vandalism, and intimidation, causing widespread damage across the capital. Among the sites affected was Bandhushabha, the readers’ organisation affiliated with Prothom Alo, which was deliberately set on fire.
Actor Khairul Basar condemned the violence, emphasizing that destruction, vandalism, and physical assaults can never be justified. He reflected on Bandhushabha’s legacy, describing it as a volunteer-driven space built on empathy, friendship, and social responsibility, where thousands of young volunteers contributed positively to the vision of a humane, developed Bangladesh.
Actress Sadia Ayman also criticised the attacks, questioning whose interests were truly served by burning newspapers and Chhayanaut. She noted that protesters failed to realise they were destroying national resources during a time of collective mourning. According to Ayman, protest should never take the form of violence, as such actions only weaken the country further. She added that Osman Hadi, whose death sparked the unrest, would never have supported such destructive behaviour.
Filmmaker Tanha Zafreen described the situation as terrifying, warning that intolerance and revenge-driven politics have reached alarming levels. She said the attacks marked a deeply troubling day for free expression, journalism, and democratic values.
On the same night, The Daily Star office was vandalised and set on fire, trapping journalists inside the building. Journalist and actress Naziba Basher was among those rescued by army personnel at dawn.
Musician Shayan Chowdhury Arnob urged citizens to vote, highlighting the growing threats faced by artists, musicians, and cultural workers without civic resistance. Quazi Nawshaba Ahmed posted a brief message urging people to recognise who truly stands with them, while dancer Arthy Ahmed vowed that songs would continue despite attempts to silence culture through fear.
Actor Peya Jannatul said the fires could destroy buildings, but never courage, memory, or collective spirit. Imtiaz Barshon appealed for humane treatment of media workers, questioning why lives were put at risk through deliberate arson and asking what protective measures authorities had in place while journalists were trapped. He concluded with prayers for those caught inside, hoping all would return safely.
