Kabir Suman denounces false narratives about Bangladesh’s minorities
Kabir Suman, legendary singer-songwriter admired across both Bengals, has once again raised his voice against the growing political tensions between Bangladesh and India. Although he recently visited Bangladesh and performed for his beloved audience, the political atmosphere between the two nations has become increasingly strained. Indian media, in particular, has been accused of perpetuating false narratives.
Recently, several Indian news outlets reported alleged "persecution" of minorities in Bangladesh. This misinformation has sparked protests in various parts of India, including West Bengal. In an unfortunate escalation, the Assistant High Commission of Bangladesh in Agartala was attacked, with miscreants vandalising the premises and tearing down the Bangladeshi flag on Monday.
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Amid this tense situation, Kabir Suman, a vocal critic of India's stance on the minority issue in Bangladesh, has not held back. Reflecting on the recent flag desecration incident, he brought up the tragic killing of Felani Khatun, asking, "When Felani was hanging from the barbed wire fence on the border, whose honour was being insulted then?"
On Saturday, December 7, Kabir Suman took to Facebook to address the matter further, stating: "'I was born into a Hindu family, but I aspire to be human. Muslims have never oppressed me or my family, Sir. My respects to you.' These words were recently written to me by a young Bangladeshi friend of mine."
He went on to explain, "I won't disclose his name. From time to time, he visits Kolkata and meets me. If his identity were revealed, who knows what would happen to him in my country."
Suman emphasized the baseless propaganda being spread about Bangladesh's Muslim and Hindu communities, declaring, "False propaganda will ultimately be defeated. Those from India who continue to spread lies about the relationship between Bangladeshi Muslims and Hindus should know that falsehoods never prevail. Just as the relentless lies about Sandeshkhali and RG Kar Hospital in West Bengal did no good to those who spread them, the same will happen here."
He concluded his post with a message of love, "Victory to love! – Kabir."
Kabir Suman, born Suman Chattopadhyay, is a celebrated Indian Bengali singer, songwriter, actor, journalist, poet, lyricist, and former member of the Indian Parliament. In 2000, he converted to Islam and adopted the name Kabir Suman.
Suman is known for revolutionizing Bengali music with his 1992 album "Tomake Chai", which introduced a fresh style to the genre. His contributions extend beyond music, as he is also an accomplished essayist, novelist, and short story writer. His acting credentials include significant roles in critically acclaimed films such as "Herbert" and "Chaturanga".
Kabir Suman's vast body of work, spanning over 20 albums, continues to shape the landscape of Bengali music and culture, demonstrating his remarkable talent as a composer, lyricist, arranger, and performer.
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