A disturbing incident at a private event in Kolkata has sent shockwaves through West Bengal's cultural and social circles. Renowned playback singer Lagnajita Chakraborty was allegedly heckled and physically harassed while performing a devotional song on Saturday evening. The event, which quickly turned from a celebration to a controversy, has sparked widespread condemnation.
What Happened on Stage in Kolkata?
According to the singer's detailed account to ANI, the evening began normally. Lagnajita started her performance around 7 PM, and the show proceeded smoothly for the first 45 minutes. She had completed seven songs and was about to begin her eighth number when the situation escalated.
The trigger was her seventh song, 'Jago Maa', a devotional track from the recently released film 'Devi Chowdhurani'. After finishing the song and while interacting with the audience, a man suddenly charged towards the stage. "We suddenly see a gentleman charging towards the stage, not walking, but running and charging towards the stage, and within a split second, he was up on the stage with us," Lagnajita recounted.
The singer identified the alleged accused as Mehboob Malik. She stated that his intention was clearly violent. "He charged towards the stage with the intention of hitting me; in plain words, he wanted to beat me up," she said. Fortunately, before he could reach her, two or three people from the audience managed to pull him away.
The Demand for 'Secular Songs' and Aftermath
As he was being restrained, the man shouted at the singer, revealing a possible motive for the aggression. Lagnajita shared his words: "Enough of your Jaago Ma; now sing something secular." This demand to stop singing devotional music and switch to what he termed 'secular songs' lies at the heart of the incident.
The singer did not take the matter lightly. Following the traumatic experience, she filed a General Diary at the Bhagwanpur Police Station in Purba Medinipur. The case is now under official investigation. Despite the fear, Lagnajita expressed confidence in the authorities. "I have full faith in the administration and knows that such an incident would not happen again," she stated.
With another performance scheduled, her trust in the system remains. "I know the police and administration will ensure that I sing 'Jago Maa' and do not get beaten up for it, and I return home safe and sound," she added, highlighting her determination to continue her artistic expression.
Public Outrage and Social Media Storm
The news of the attack quickly spread beyond the venue, flooding social media platforms. The public reaction has been one of unanimous condemnation towards the alleged actions of Mehboob Malik. Many users, including fellow artists and cultural commentators, have voiced their support for Lagnajita Chakraborty, emphasizing the right of a performer to safety and artistic freedom.
The incident raises serious questions about the safety of performers and the increasing instances of intolerance towards specific forms of artistic and religious expression. As the police investigation proceeds, the cultural community in West Bengal and across India awaits justice, hoping such acts of intimidation are not repeated.
