Dhaka: City dwellers today celebrated ‘Pahela Baishakh’, the first day of Bangla New Year-1432, in an inclusive manner and festivity. Members belonging to different religious communities, including ethnic groups, jointly celebrated ‘Pahela Baishakh’ for the first time with enthusiastic festivities. The central celebration of ‘Borshoboron Anondo Shovajatra’ began from Dhaka University campus in the morning with participation from teachers, students, artists, poets, and other city dwellers.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, people of all ages, castes, creeds, and religions gathered at Dhaka University in groups wearing colorful costumes and dresses to take part in the ‘Pahela Baishakh’ celebration rally at the Faculty of Fine Arts from early morning. Cultural Affairs Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki stated during the rally that fascism is not part of politics, emphasizing that the presence of such symbols in the procession is a cultural expression rather than a political statement.
The ‘Noboborsho Anondo Shovajatra,’ which began at 9:00 am in front of the fine arts faculty, aimed to unify people from all walks of life, including government officials, farmers, rickshaw pullers, blacksmiths, and ethnic communities, under the slogan ‘Noboborsher Slogan, Fascibader Oboshan’. The procession featured various motifs, including a reconstructed fascist face, a peace pigeon, and cultural symbols like the Hilsha fish and a tiger.
The Dhaka Metropolitan Police ensured extensive security measures, allowing people to celebrate the day joyously. The procession included participation from members of the Bangladesh women’s football team and various ethnic communities, showcasing a vibrant display of cultural unity.
The main banner of the celebration was carried by notable figures from Dhaka University, including Vice-Chancellor Professor Niaz Ahmed Khan and other university officials. The event involved additional cultural programs, such as a Bangla classical song exhibition by the music department and performances organized by Chhayanaut at Ramna Batamul.
Chhayanaut, the esteemed cultural organization, welcomed the Bangla New Year with its traditional festivity, featuring songs, poetry, and a theme of hope and renewal. The event highlighted the cultural significance of Pahela Baishakh, drawing participants from across the capital and being broadcasted live for wider accessibility.
Pahela Baishakh stands as one of the most anticipated festivities in Bangladesh, celebrated annually with grandeur and cultural resonance, as exemplified by Chhayanaut’s long-standing tradition of organizing such events since 1967.