200-year-old banyan tree felled in Madaripur over 'bid’ah' claims
The banyan tree on the bank of the Kumar River was widely believed to possess “mystical powers,” leading people to light candles and make vows at its base, according to locals
Local Islamic clerics in the Alom Mirer Kandi area of Shirkhara union, Madaripur Sadar, have cut down a nearly 200-year-old banyan tree, citing reasons such as "bid'ah" (religious innovation).
They began cutting the tree around 9am on Monday (5 May), and by the end of the day, about 75% of it – including its branches and main trunk – fell.
The incident has sparked widespread criticism on social media, with many locals expressing their disapproval.
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According to locals, the banyan tree on the bank of the Kumar River was widely believed to possess "mystical powers," leading people to light candles and make vows at its base.
Abul Kalam Azad, member of Ward 1 in Shirkhara union, confirmed that local Islamic clerics cut down the banyan tree. "However, I have yet to find out who exactly led the operation," he said.
He added that many locals believe cutting the tree was wrong, but they are reluctant to speak out due to fear.
Azam Khan, member of Ward 3, said, "Some people used to perform 'rituals' under the banyan tree, which the clerics found objectionable. All the imams from the union's mosques gathered and decided to cut it down. They are not affiliated with any political party."
He also noted that people from across the union came to the site, including several individuals from his own area, including Kader Bepari, Dadon Huzur, Kabil Bepari, Ibrahim Huzur, and the imam of their local mosque.
Md Dadon, a young man from Shri Nodi village who was present during the tree cutting, said the local clerics objected to people performing "rituals" under the banyan tree and could not accept it. "That's why the tree was cut down," he said, adding that nearly 200 people participated in the act.
Wadia Shabab, upazila nirbahi officer (UNO) of Madaripur Sadar, said, "I learned about the incident last night. Those involved have been summoned. I will be able to provide more information after speaking with them. For now, I prefer not to comment further on the matter."
