Fascism Figure Engulfed in Flames: Pohela Boishakh Effigy Torched at DU
An effigy titled “Portrait of Fascism,” created by students of the Faculty of Fine Arts at Dhaka University for the traditional Mangal Shobhajatra procession on Pohela Boishakh, was completely destroyed in a fire in the early hours of Saturday. Another motif, the “Dove of Peace,” was partially damaged in the incident. The event has sparked a storm of reactions on social media.
On his Facebook page, renowned filmmaker and cultural activist Mostofa Sarwar Farooki wrote, “Hasina’s henchmen set fire to the effigy representing fascism in Charukola early this morning. Those who dared to do this—whether soft Awami League or Awami B-team—must be brought under the law, immediately.”
He continued, “Those working to halt this procession on behalf of the Awami League should not only face legal action, but we will also ensure that this year’s procession becomes even more meaningful.”
“After last night’s incident, Hasina’s henchmen have made it clear—they don’t want the people of Bangladesh to unite in celebration. We are now more determined than ever, and we will participate in even greater numbers,” Farooki added.
He also noted, “In recent days, many supporters of the July Movement have said this year’s procession is the most inclusive and unique ever. Some even suggested excluding the grotesque face of fascism. We were still reflecting on all opinions and seeking the university authorities’ input. But after last night, the presence of this monstrous face has become inevitable.”
The fire, which affected only the two specific motifs, is being termed suspicious by the Fire Service. A Fire Service official said they received the alert at 5:05 AM on Saturday. Two units from the Siddique Bazar Fire Station in Old Dhaka brought the fire under control by 5:15 AM.
Both police and the Fire Service have launched investigations into the incident. According to Assistant Commissioner Abdullah Al Mamun of the Ramna Zone of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), efforts are underway to collect DVRs from multiple CCTV cameras in and around the area. “Footage will be analyzed to identify those responsible,” he said.
Dhaka University Proctor Associate Professor Saifuddin Ahmed echoed the same, confirming that both the “Portrait of Fascism” and “Dove of Peace” motifs were damaged in the fire. “We have yet to identify who set the fire. We are currently reviewing CCTV footage,” he stated.
This year’s Pohela Boishakh theme—“Noboborsher Oikotan, Fascibader Oboshan” (Symphony of the New Year, End of Fascism)—was inspired by the spirit of the July Uprising. The main motif, the now-destroyed “Face of Fascism,” stood 20 feet tall and featured a terrifying female visage made of bamboo and cane—complete with sharp horns, gaping mouth, oversized nose, and fearful eyes. Many perceived the effigy as a symbolic representation of the ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
