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CONCERTS scheduled for Istanbul and Ankara by Behemoth and Slaughter To Prevail have been cancelled by authorities due to complaints on religious grounds.
Beşiktaş District Governor’s Office called off the extreme metal concerts due to the alleged threat they posed to “societal values”.
“The events were found to have caused public reaction due to their incompatibility with our societal values,” was the statement from the governor’s office, which also banned all performances at the venues concerned in the period when the shows were to take place.
Behemoth, who have previously faced similar problems in Poland, issued a detailed statement in response to the cancellations, which read: “To our fans in Istanbul and Ankara, we are deeply disappointed to confirm that our scheduled performances in Turkey have been cancelled.
“Despite exhausting every possible avenue throughout the day and engaging in extensive discussions, the decision from the local authorities remains final. There is simply nothing further we can do to overturn it.
“The cancellations come after pressure from religious groups who have characterised our art as satanic propaganda and deemed it unacceptable. This is another example of ideology being used to suppress artistic expression and restrict cultural freedom.
“Behemoth has always stood for creative independence and the right of artists to express themselves without censorship. Music is not a threat, but silencing it should concern anyone who values freedom of expression.
“To those who planned to attend, who travelled, and who stood ready to share this night with us, we are truly sorry. We fought to make these shows happen and we share your frustration and disappointment.
“Turkey has some of the most passionate and dedicated fans in the world and we hope the day will come when we can return to Istanbul and Ankara and perform for you without interference. Until then, thank you for your unwavering support.”
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