A wave of national grief swept across Bangladesh on Tuesday, 22 July, following the tragic crash of a Bangladesh Air Force training aircraft into Milestone School and College in Uttara, Dhaka. The crash resulted in the loss of many lives, prompting the interim government to declare the day a national day of mourning.
According to an official statement from the Press Wing of the Chief Adviser, the national flag was flown at half-mast on all government, semi-government, autonomous institutions, educational establishments, and Bangladesh missions abroad as part of the state’s official mourning. In keeping with this directive, all cinema halls and multiplexes across the country also remained closed on Tuesday.
Health Adviser to the interim government, Nurjahan Begum, visited the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery and informed the media that so far, 29 people have been confirmed dead. However, earlier in the day, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) reported that by 12 noon, 31 had died and 165 were injured in the crash, with the total number of injured expected to exceed 200.
The nation was united in sorrow over the heartbreaking accident, and the entertainment industry too paused to honour the victims. The Film Exhibitors’ Association announced the suspension of all film screenings nationwide on Tuesday, as a mark of respect.
In a statement released Monday night, the association called upon all single-screen theatres and multiplexes to halt operations on 22 July in solidarity with the national mourning. Major cinema chains responded accordingly.
Star Cineplex issued a statement expressing profound grief over the incident, saying, “We are deeply saddened by the tragic accident at Milestone School. We pray for the souls of the deceased and wish a swift recovery to the injured. In observance of the national mourning, Star Cineplex has suspended all screenings and operations across its branches today (Tuesday).”
A visit to various parts of the capital revealed shuttered doors at major cinemas including Star Cineplex at Bashundhara City, Simanto Shomvar, Bailey Road, and Mirpur. Moviegoers echoed support for the closure across social media, while many celebrities also shared their condolences.
Star Cineplex further confirmed that regular operations will resume on Wednesday, 23 July, following the previously scheduled timetable.
