James, Miles draw crowds at Manik Mia concert

Manik Mia Avenue turned into a sea of people on Saturday evening as music lovers gathered to enjoy the ‘Concert for Solidarity’ marking National Revolution and Solidarity Day.

The crowd began arriving in groups from the afternoon, with attendance increasing after sunset. The venue turned festive as fans gathered to watch their favourite singers and bands perform live.

The scene was observed around 6 PM on Saturday (November 7). BNP leaders and activists also joined the concert, arriving in small processions from the party's rally. Young people, groups of friends and visitors of different ages filled the area.

The concert was organised by the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, with the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy managing the event in collaboration with the Bangladesh Musical Bands Association (BAMBA).

Seven popular bands — Nagar Baul (James), Miles, Warfaze, Feedback, Artcell, Shironamhin and Mechanics — are performing at the nearly seven-hour event, which began at 4pm.

James, Miles, Warfaze and Artcell have drawn particular excitement among the audience. The concert is free and open to all, with organisers saying it aims to celebrate unity, harmony and goodwill.

Security has been strengthened around the venue, with additional police deployed to maintain law and order and ensure visitors' safety.

-AJM