An updated review examines the historical context, cultural significance, and the wave of attacks on shrines, Sufi culture, and spiritual traditions in Bangladesh. Published by the Global Center for Democratic Governance (GCDG), the publication documents the widespread vandalism, arson, and administrative restrictions affecting Sufi centers, dargahs, and baul traditions across various districts.
Key figures and overview
As stated in the report:
- Attacks on Shrines: Between August 2024 and July 2025, approximately 120 incidents of attacks, vandalism, and arson occurred across the country, damaging around 80 Sufi shrines, darbar sharifs, and spiritual centers.
- Regional Distribution: Attacks were documented across multiple divisions, including 35 in Dhaka, 30 in Chittagong, 15 in Mymensingh, and 40 in other locations.
- Casualties and Arrests: Despite numerous incidents resulting in injuries and fatalities, legal actions remained limited, with human rights organizations reporting widespread impunity for perpetrators.
What the report covers
The report outlines various dimensions of the crisis through detailed thematic sections:
- Islam and Sufism: Explores the spiritual, internal dimensions of Islam, the role of Sufism in promoting peace and love, and its harmony with mainstream Islamic teachings.
- Historical Introduction to Bangladesh: Details how Sufism entered Bengal following its conquest by Bakhtiyar Khilji in 1204, highlighting prominent saints like Shah Sultan Mahiswar, Shah Sultan Rumi, and Hazrat Shah Jalal.
- Nature of Attacks: Documents specific incidents of vandalism, burning of musical instruments, disruption of urus festivals, and harassment of spiritual practitioners and devotees.
- Social Impact and Cultural Threats: Analyzes the negative consequences of these attacks on religious harmony, folk literature, local economies, and vulnerable communities who depend on shrines for spiritual and humanitarian support.
- Preservation and Recommendations: Proposes administrative, security, and cultural measures to safeguard historical shrines, promote interfaith dialogue, and protect cultural heritage.
Calls for action
The report calls for immediate, effective legal action against perpetrators, enhanced security for shrines and cultural centers, and the preservation of Bangladesh’s pluralistic and tolerant traditions.
Read the Full Report
Read the complete report below, open it in a new tab, or download the PDF for offline reading.
Report details
- Title: Recent Attacks on Shrines and Sufi Culture in Bangladesh: A Review
- Prepared and published by: Global Center for Democratic Governance (GCDG)
The findings, allegations and opinions in this report are those of its publisher.
About the Author
