An effigy symbolising Sheikh Hasina’s fascism was set ablaze on Saturday at the Fine Arts Institute of Dhaka University, prompting Cultural Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki to condemn the act, accuse Awami League allies and call for quick legal action.
The 1432 Bengali New Year's theme "New Year's Harmony, End of Fascism" was inspired by the July-August mass uprising, and the traditional procession which was named 'Borshoboron Anondo Shobhajatra' (formerly 'Mongol Shobhajatra') on Friday by Dhaka University, was all set to feature a 20-foot-high motif called the "Face of Fascism".
Crafted from bamboo and cane, the depiction portrayed a woman with a toothy grin, four horns on her head, a large nose, and two fearful eyes. The striking image led many to believe it resembled ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
On Saturday early morning, a fire broke out at the Fine Arts Faculty where the motifs were being made: the monstrous fascist face motif was completely burnt in the fire, while the dove of peace motif was also partially burnt.
In a Facebook post made Saturday morning, Farooki condemned the incident and warned that those involved - regardless of political label - must face legal consequences.
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“Hasina’s collaborators torched the face of fascism last night at Charukola,” Farooki wrote. “Whether they belong to the Soft Awami League or the Awami B Team, everyone responsible must be brought under the law - urgently.”
The effigy was reportedly being prepared as part of this year's traditional procession organised by progressive cultural activists and students. The act of burning it was seen as an attempt to disrupt the symbolic protest, but Farooki stated that it had only strengthened the resolve of those involved.
“Those trying to stop this year’s procession will not just be held accountable under the law - we also want to assure them that this year’s procession is more powerful and meaningful,” he said.
