Khulna: The 145th founding anniversary of Khulna district was celebrated today in a festive atmosphere with the participation of people from all walks of life and various political and cultural organisations.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, a colourful procession, accompanied by traditional drums and musical instruments, was brought out to mark the day, turning the city into a festive ground. The Greater Khulna Development Action Coordination Committee organised the programmes, with Khulna City Corporation (KCC) Administrator Nazrul Islam Manju inaugurating the daylong events and addressing a discussion as the chief guest. The discussion was presided over by the Convener of the organising committee, Sheikh Ashraf Uz Zaman.
Several notable figures, including Member of Parliament Advocate Sheikh Jahangir Hossain Helal, District Council Administrator SM Monirul Hasan Bappi, City BNP President Shafiqul Alam Mona, and city Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Professor Md. Mahfuzur Rahman, also spoke at the event. The speakers highlighted the historical significance of Khulna and called for united efforts to ensure the planned development of the city.
Historically, Khulna emerged as an administrative centre in 1842, centred around Noabad Thana and Kismat Khulna on the banks of the Bhairab and Rupsha rivers. Following the establishment of Khulna subdivision, the area gained importance due to its strategic geographical location and the expansion of British administration. On April 25, 1882, Khulna was officially declared a district through a gazette notification, comprising Khulna, Bagerhat, and Satkhira, with an area of 4,630 square miles and a population of 43,500. Before this, Khulna was a subdivision of Jashore district, with British officer W.M. Clay serving as the first magistrate of the district.
In addition to the celebrations, a colourful banana tree raft race was held at the Moyuri River on Friday afternoon, attracting a large number of curious onlookers who gathered along the riverbanks to enjoy the event.