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Fan backlash
An immediate backlash manifested on social media, berating the eleventh hour decision to call the concert off. The outrage was only fuelled by treatment of the bands at the airport. Raptor sources have confided to the Dhaka Tribune that the concert’s security clearance had come from the highest levels of the Home Ministry. Taxes had been paid and every required form filled up to ensure the concert would go on, to no avail. Bangladeshi musicians and fans alike appeared apoplectic, drawing parallels between how Indian artists are allowed to frequently perform with impunity and metal bands denied entry at the very last minute.The disappointment of home grown talents
The metal scene in Bangladesh is one that has been maturing for over 30 years. Despite the utter lack of formal musical training, people have taught themselves, learned from YouTube videos, DIY books. The concert was poised to present the sheer talent that is cloistered away in Bangladesh. Bands like Severe Dementia and Thrash, who were the opening acts, expressed bitterness at the missed opportunity to present the potential of Bangladesh to international eyes. Sumit Gaurab, guitarist of Thrash, said: “"The stage was ready for us to take over, it felt like the whole world is watching. It should have been the day when the world gets to know about the potential of the scene, instead now everyone knows how conservative and nonsensical we are!"Of folk metal and Indian pop
Of note, Swiss folk metal band Eluveitie was also set to perform on 26 May 2016. Barely an hour before the concert kicked off, it was cancelled over "security concerns."Also Read- Disgruntled over the cancellation of Eluveitie’s concert
Several fans on social media have pointed out how Neha Kakkar, an Indian artist, was allowed to perform at the same venue as Eluveitie just a week later. Many have taken to Facebook to point out Indian artists visiting Bangladesh are given garish receptions.