Dhaka: Women and Children Affairs and Social Welfare Adviser Sharmeen S Murshid today emphasized that Pahela Baishakh transcends being merely a date on the calendar, representing instead a symbol of cultural heritage, love, and celebration. She conveyed this message during her speech as the chief guest at the inauguration ceremony of the ‘Pahela Baishakh’ (Bangla New Year) celebration at the Bangladesh Shishu Academy.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Sharmeen S Murshid highlighted the importance of Pahela Baishakh as a time to release past sorrows and challenges while embracing the New Year with renewed hope and determination. She described the aspirations of the young generation as the guiding light for the nation’s future and encouraged children to remain curious and engaged, urging them to pursue knowledge and good deeds.
The event commenced with the national anthem and the traditional Baishakhi song ‘Eso He Baishakh.’ Notable attendees included Momtaz Ahmed, Senior Secretary to the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, and Dilara Begum, Director General of Bangladesh Shishu Academy, among others.
Murshid emphasized the significance of respecting parents, teachers, and elders, and called upon children to focus on their studies and cultivate moral values. She committed to fostering harmony, rejecting violence and hatred, upholding social unity and order, and standing firm against corruption, drug abuse, violence, and superstition.
Reflecting on the sacrifices behind the creation of a free, democratic, and progressive Bangladesh, the adviser acknowledged the significant role of children, students, and the general masses in the July-August uprising of 2024, which was instrumental in establishing a new Bangladesh. This year’s “Barshobaran Ananda Shobhajatra” marked a renewed momentum in the national journey.
Children actively participated in various cultural segments of the celebration, which included traditional Baishakhi festivities, Nagardola rides, storytelling, Gambhira performances, Bioscope shows, oiled banana tree climbing, Sangrai water games, dances, songs, and poetry recitations.