Sarod Maestro Flees Bangladesh Amid Cultural Vandalism

Acclaimed sarod player Shiraz Ali Khan was forced to flee Dhaka, Bangladesh, on Saturday evening, December 21, 2025, after the cultural institution Chhayanaut was vandalized. Khan had a concert scheduled for December 19, 2025, at the venue. The attack occurred amidst escalating unrest following the death of a radical leader. Khan managed to reach Kolkata by suppressing his Indian identity to ensure his safe passage.

Khan's family has deep roots in Bangladesh, with his great-grandfather, Ustad Allauddin Khan, hailing from Brahmanbaria. The musician expressed profound shock and dismay at the assault on the cultural institution, calling it an "unimaginable assault on our culture and shared values." He had performed at a jazz concert on December 17, 2025, in Banani, describing the experience as heartfelt despite a small audience.

During his attempt to leave Dhaka, Khan was questioned at a checkpoint and chose not to reveal his Indian nationality, speaking instead in the Brahmanbaria dialect. He recounted giving his Indian passport and phone to his driver for safekeeping until reaching the airport. His tabla player and other Hindu accompanists are still stranded in Dhaka, with their safety being a grave concern. Khan stated he would not return to Bangladesh until artists and cultural institutions are respected and protected.