Twelve days have passed since the horrific attack on the young doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, yet the city of Calcutta remains ablaze with anger and a relentless pursuit of justice. Lawyers, doctors, students, the elderly, and even children have taken to the streets in a united front against this heinous crime.
Today, Nandan witnessed another such demonstration of solidarity. Hundreds of seasoned musicians, aspiring artists, dancers, professors, and students gathered at Ranu Chhaya Mancha at 7:00 PM, and walked till Esplanade under torrential rains. We spoke with some of the organizers to gain insights into tonight’s protest.
Eminent Sitar player Kalyanjit Das spoke, “There are so many questions that demand the unadulterated truth. It’s baffling to think that even our doctors aren’t safe anymore at their very own workplace! The most severe consequences must be imposed on those who commit such atrocities to serve as a powerful deterrent. Till then, my city shouldn’t go to sleep. The sun must rise, and we must rise with it.”
“This isn’t a silent protest. I believe, at this point, we shouldn’t be staying silent anymore. We’re coming together to help prevent this heinous act from happening with anyone else in the future. To the people of Calcutta, all I’d like to request is to keep questioning. Keep asking questions until we get to the truth. We owe this much to our Tilottoma”, said Swarnendu Mandal, a prominent Sarod player hailing from Calcutta.
Abhirup Roy, a celebrated Tabla player, added, “I think the biggest reform that we need is to educate children on topics such as gender inequality, respecting women and foster positive human values. This is a fundamental step towards creating a more just and equitable society. And such a thing can’t happen without proper parental education as well. Parents, guardians and elders need to be open about such discussions and not turn them into something that is taboo. It’s crucial we normalise women’s safety so that we can help shift societal attitudes and behaviours, ultimately leading to a safer and more inclusive world for us all.”
“It’s a sad but significant day for all of us. The whole artist fraternity has come forward, joined hands and has risen in rage against this atrocity. The world is protesting with us. We need to show the wrongdoers that we haven’t died. Humanity hasn’t died. I agree with Abhirup Da on the fact that we need to cultivate proper upbringing for our children in our own homes. It’s important for us to know how to assess ourselves and to teach our children how to do the same. I believe that with this practice, our city will continue to stay awake. I urge my city to keep on raging against the offence and the offenders”, shared Indian classical vocalist Rageshri Das.
Slogans such as “Shetar, Sarod, Sur-Bahaar, Beje Uthuk Nyay-Bichaar” (Let the melodious strains of the sitar, sarod and sur-bahaar usher in justice), “Shilpi ra Shob Dichhe Daak, ‘Abhaya’ aaj Bichaar Pak” (Artists unite, demand justice for ‘Abhaya’), “Rhythm against Violence” and so on were heard tonight.
Subhajyoti Guha, a renowned Tabla player from Calcutta, shared, “We’re all gathering here today to protest against this inhumane act. It’s not about any particular political agenda anymore. We’re demanding justice; we’re demanding that the rightful punishment be given to the perpetrators. All of us, the people of Calcutta, need to raise our voices. We must stand as a beacon of hope and demand a safer, more just future for Calcutta.”
The protest, marked by heartfelt speeches and powerful slogans, sent a clear message: Calcutta will not tolerate violence against women. It underscored the need for justice, societal reform, and a renewed commitment to creating a safer and more equitable city. As the sun sets on another day, Calcutta’s residents remain resolute, their voices echoing the demand for change, ensuring that the victim’s memory will continue to inspire and galvanize the city’s pursuit of justice.
