Sound of the July uprising

This article by Dr. Navine Murshid, published in The Daily Star, examines the role of music — specifically rap — in Bangladesh's July 2024 uprising, which was sparked by economic grievances, political repression, and demands for democracy. Two rap songs, "Awaz Utha" (Raise Your Voice) by Hannan and "Kotha Ko" (Speak Up) by Shezan, became anthems of the movement, spreading virally on social media after the government lifted an internet blackout, representing a sharp departure from the traditional protest music (Rabindra Sangeet, Nazrul Geeti) that defined earlier movements like the 1990 anti-Ershad uprising and the 2013 Shahbagh movement. The article contrasts this digitally-driven, decentralized, youth-led cultural resistance with past movements, noting that established cultural organizations largely stayed silent due to their alignment with the Awami League government. It also critically addresses competing narratives that frame the uprising as either an Islamist or right-wing conspiracy, arguing instead that it was a broad, spontaneous, leaderless movement driven by Gen Z frustration with authoritarianism. Finally, the piece reflects on the movement's uncertain legacy, warning that — like the Shahbagh movement before it — the July Uprising risks being co-opted by political actors, while Bangladesh continues to face polarization and incomplete democratic reform.

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The Daily Star

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The Daily Star

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Rights retained by the original publisher. Archived as a preservation copy for public research, with attribution and a link to the original.

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