Sylhet: Labour and Employment and Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Minister Ariful Haque Choudhury has emphasized that Pahela Baishakh, marking the first day of the Bengali New Year, serves as a symbol of the nation’s rich heritage, culture, and communal harmony. “Pahela Baishakh reflects our tradition, culture, and harmony. Inspired by this festival, we must further enrich the country’s cultural arena,” he stated during his participation in celebrations organized by cultural groups, Shruti and Anandalok, at Blue Bird School and College and Srihatta Sanskrit College premises in the city.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister underscored the importance of recognizing and supporting artists, cultural activists, and organizers to enhance Bengali culture. He pointed out that numerous cultural organizations in Sylhet have long operated through personal initiatives and limited resources. However, he acknowledged that the lack of necessary logistical support has caused the cultural sector in the region to fall behind compared to other parts of the country.
Ariful Haque Choudhury further revealed that discussions have been held with the Ministry of Cultural Affairs on this matter, and plans are underway to construct a modern cultural complex in Sylhet in collaboration with local representatives. “The proposed complex will ensure all necessary facilities for cultural practices as well as training opportunities for children and young people,” he explained.
On the occasion of the Bengali New Year, he encouraged everyone to move forward by overcoming past mistakes and to work collectively towards unity, harmony, and development. “Bangladesh is a country of harmony, and the people of this region have set a bright example of it. This harmony will become even stronger and more enriched,” he remarked, emphasizing the role of the younger generation in cultural activities and envisioning a prosperous and developed Bangladesh under their leadership.
The event was attended by notable figures including Sylhet City Corporation Administrator Abdul Qayyum Chowdhury, Second Secretary of the Indian High Commission Rajesh Bhatia, Sylhet District BNP Organizing Secretary Shamim Ahmed, singer Himangshu Biswas, theatre organizer Shamsul Bashir Shero, Anandalok Director Rana Kumar Singh, and Shruti Member Secretary Suka Gupta.