Bangladesh authorities began tearing down a century-old building in Mymensingh on 15 July after deeming it structurally unsafe. Local media initially identified the structure as the ancestral home of celebrated Indian filmmaker Satyajit Ray, sparking protests in India and across the Bengali diaspora. India’s Ministry of External Affairs said it noted the move with “profound regret” and offered technical and financial assistance to preserve the site as a museum of shared cultural heritage. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and other political figures echoed the appeal, urging Dhaka to halt the works. Demolition activity was suspended on 16 July following the diplomatic outreach. A day later, Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a formal clarification stating that a review of archival records showed “no historical or familial link” between the demolished building and the Ray family. Officials said the filmmaker’s verified ancestral residence, known locally as Durlov House, remains untouched. The episode highlights the sensitivity surrounding heritage sites tied to prominent cultural figures in South Asia and underscores how quickly misidentification can trigger bilateral tension. Dhaka has signalled it will continue examining options for redeveloping the disputed plot, while New Delhi maintains its offer to cooperate on any legitimate restoration of Ray-related property.