The historic Gazi-Kalu-Champabati Mela, held annually for over a hundred years in Hogla Champagachhi village under Kumarkhali upazila of Kushtia, has been canceled this year due to escalating political and religious tensions. The fair faced strong opposition from local leaders and activists of Jamaat-e-Islami and failed to receive administrative permission. Following clashes, attacks, and vandalism in the area, the authorities officially called off the fair.
A Tradition Rooted in Folklore and Communal Harmony
According to local legends, Prince Shah Gazi, the son of Emperor Shah Sekandar, fell in love with Champabati, the daughter of a feudal ruler. Kalu, a close companion of Gazi, completes the trio that has become emblematic figures in local folklore. The Gazi-Kalu-Champabati fair, held annually in Champagachhi village, has long been a symbol of rural tradition, communal coexistence, and cultural heritage in the region.
Tensions Before the Fair Began
Local sources report that preparations for this year’s fair were underway as usual, with the event scheduled to start on Monday, May 19. Vendors began setting up stalls on May 17. However, opposition quickly mounted as Jamaat-e-Islami activists raised concerns over alleged “obscene activities” and “gambling” at the fair, claiming such practices negatively impact local youth and social morality.
Administrative Silence and Denial of Permission
Kushtia’s Deputy Commissioner Tawfiqur Rahman stated that permission for the fair was denied due to fears of potential law and order breakdown. “There had been altercations in previous years. Allowing the event this time could have worsened the situation,” he said.
Kumarkhali police station’s Officer-in-Charge (OC) Md. Solaiman Sheikh confirmed, “There was no permission for the fair. Despite that, groups both supporting and opposing the event gathered, leading to clashes.” At least 11 individuals from both sides were reportedly injured.
Clashes and Violence Erupt
On the evening of May 20, local worshippers and Jamaat-Shibir activists gathered in the Champagachhi market area demanding the fair be shut down. When organizers and BNP-affiliated locals arrived in response, tensions escalated. Clashes broke out, involving stone-pelting, vandalism, and attacks on shops and stalls.
Among the injured were Habibur Rahman, secretary of Jamaat’s Jagannathpur Union Ulama Council and a madrasa principal, along with five others. On the other side, Khoksa Government College lecturer Sarafat Sultan, several teachers, and local residents were treated at Kushtia General Hospital.
Traders Bear the Brunt
Nader Sheikh, a banana vendor, lamented, “This fair has taken place for a hundred years. I’ve never seen anything like this. Shops were looted, and people fled in panic.”
Another vendor alleged, “Hundreds of Jamaat-Shibir activists attacked with homemade weapons. Around 30 stalls were vandalized and looted.”
Political Blame Game
Organizers claim they had made all necessary preparations, as in previous years. Lecturer Sarafat Sultan said, “Jamaat members launched a sudden attack on us. They filed false complaints with the administration to sabotage the event.”
Local Jamaat leaders counter that they protested the fair due to “immoral activities and gambling” and accused the organizers of violating promises to curb such behavior. Jamaat’s upazila leader Afzal Hossain stated, “We have opposed inappropriate activities at the fair in previous years too. Organizers had assured us these would not recur, but they broke their promise.”
Administrative Apathy and Denial
Repeated attempts to contact the Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) SM Mikail Islam for comment were unsuccessful. He did not respond to calls or messages.
OC Solaiman Sheikh added, “We have not received any formal complaints yet. We’ve heard that both sides have reached an informal understanding.”
Once a vibrant celebration of folk heritage and communal harmony, the Gazi-Kalu-Champabati Mela has fallen victim to growing religious intolerance, political rivalry, and administrative inaction. The cancellation of this century-old fair underscores the shrinking space for traditional culture and pluralism in rural Bangladesh.
Publication Date: 22 May, 2025
Reports published in various newspapers on this issue: thedailystar, bdnews24, bd-journal
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