Dhaka, Apr 14 (V7N) – The first day of the Bengali New Year 1433 was celebrated across Bangladesh on Tuesday with colorful processions, cultural programs, fairs, and traditional events, marking the beginning of the year with hopes for unity and a non-communal society.

Across the country, people from all walks of life joined festivities, including rural fairs, cultural performances, and traditional sports.

In Natore, celebrations featured Panta festivals, Lathi Khela, and Baishakhi fairs involving participants from different professions. In Joypurhat, a large cultural program was held with participation from 19 organizations, including the District Shilpakala Academy.

In Kushtia, a vibrant procession highlighted centuries-old Bengali traditions with banners and placards. In Gopalganj, children took part in painting competitions alongside cultural programs organized by local artists.

In northern districts, a Baishakhi rally began at the Collectorate Ground in Lalmonirhat and ended at Railway Mukta Mancha, followed by cultural performances by Shilpakala Academy.

Similar celebrations, including fairs, folk exhibitions, and discussion programs, were held in Panchagarh, Madaripur, and Patuakhali. In Satkhira, a seven-day Baishakhi fair and procession were organized.

At Maulana Bhashani University of Science and Technology in Tangail, students and teachers celebrated with a festive procession starting from the main academic building at 11 am.

In Khulna University, the Vice-Chancellor inaugurated a Baishakhi fair, while at Rajshahi University, traditional stick games and cultural events drew large participation. Similar programs were also held at University of Chittagong and Jahangirnagar University.

In Mymensingh, a city corporation-organized procession added to the festive mood. In Khulna, Udichi’s New Year musical programs, morning events, and traditional celebrations like Rakhi Bandhan and Dhak performances continued throughout the day. In Barisal, cultural groups also marked the occasion with traditional performances.

In Sylhet, Expatriate Welfare and Labor Minister Ariful Haque Chowdhury inaugurated the New Year celebrations, urging unity and warning against any attempts to create unrest.

The celebrations across the country reflected a shared spirit of renewal, cultural pride, and hope for a peaceful and inclusive year ahead.

END/SMA/AJ