Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) Managing Director and Chief Editor Mahbub Morshed today addressed the Bijoy Music Festival titled "Sobar Agey Bangladesh" held at Muktir Mor in Naogaon city. Photo: BSS

NAOGAON, August 16, 2025 (BSS) - Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) Managing Director and Chief Editor Mahbub Morshed today said Bangladesh has entered a new era following the historic student-led uprising of 2024, which ended a prolonged period of autocratic rule.

He made the remarks while addressing the Bijoy Music Festival titled "Sobar Agey Bangladesh" held at Muktir Mor in Naogaon city this evening as the chief guest.

"We thought we would never be free from the 15-and-a-half-year rule of the autocratic regime. But in 2024, a new Bangladesh emerged through the bloodshed and sacrifice of our students and the general public," said Mahbub Morshed.

He said that this music and victory festival, organized by the youth, is a tribute to those who ended fascist rule at the cost of their lives. 

Reflecting on the scale of the uprising, the BSS Chief said, "I have not witnessed so much bloodshed except during the Liberation War of 1971. The 2024 mass uprising is the most pivotal event in Bangladesh since independence. When former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina assumed power after a third consecutive election, many believed the regime was unshakable. But people proved otherwise."

Citing United Nations data, he said that 1,400 people were killed and over 21,000 injured during the uprising.

Students play a crucial role in the eventual fall of the fascist government, he added.

The festival was organized jointly by the District Music Forum and the Udyog Manobik Foundation, Naogaon.
 
Masud Hasan Tuhin, Chairman of the Udyog Manobik Foundation, presided over the event while Dr. Salek Chowdhury, a valiant freedom fighter and former MP from Naogaon-1, attended as the main discussant.

Other special guests included Naogaon Additional Superintendent of Police (Sadar Circle) Mushfiqur Rahman, District Cultural Officer Taifur Rahman and Officer-in-Charge of Naogaon Sadar Police Station Noor-e-Alam Siddique, among others.

During the event, crests were awarded to distinguished individuals for their contributions to the Liberation War, as well as to the fields of art, literature, journalism, sports, dance, fine arts and music.

The evening concluded with cultural performances by 12 local bands and nationally renowned artists, showcasing music and dance that celebrated the spirit of a rejuvenated Bangladesh.