Dhaka, Apr 14 (V7N)  - Bangladesh ushered in the Bengali New Year 1432, Pahela Baishakh, with a vibrant display of cultural festivities and traditional zeal across the country. Millions embraced the day with colorful processions, cultural performances, and fairs, marking a fresh start and celebrating the nation's rich heritage.

The day began with traditional songs and dances welcoming the new dawn. Across Dhaka, the "Barshoboron Ananda Shobhajatra," organized by Dhaka University's Faculty of Fine Arts, was a central highlight. This year's procession, carrying the theme "Harmony in New Year, End of Fascism," featured diverse cultural motifs and the participation of various ethnic communities, showcasing Bangladesh's inclusive spirit. Leading cultural organization Chhayanaut welcomed the New Year at Ramna Batamul with a two-hour program featuring songs and recitations.

The spirit of Pahela Baishakh extended beyond the capital, with celebrations taking place in every district and upazila.

Regional Highlights:

  • Dhaka: The main "Barshoboron Ananda Shobhajatra" took place at Dhaka University, with a focus on inclusivity and national unity. Chhayanaut held a cultural event at Ramna Batamul. A drone show and concert were held in front of the National Parliament building.

  • Chattogram: Colorful processions, folk songs, and traditional dances marked the day, with celebrations concentrated at key cultural venues.

  • Khulna: Students and teachers from Khulna University organized a festive procession.

  • Barishal: The Barishal Institute of Fine Arts held a festive rally.

  • Thakurgaon: Celebrations began at dawn with music, followed by processions, cultural programs, and a day-long fair.

  • Rangamati: A vibrant procession, with participants in traditional attire, paraded through the town, followed by a folk fair and cultural program.

  • Jamalpur: A procession led by the Deputy Commissioner culminated in a cultural program.

  • Manikganj: A procession from Beotha Corner to Manikganj Government High School Playground was followed by a cultural program.

  • Faridpur: Educational and socio-cultural organizations held separate programs, with a central procession from the Deputy Commissioner's office.

  • Khagrachhari: A procession organized by the district administration was attended by officials, social organizations, and people of all ages.

  • Sylhet, Habiganj, Dinajpur, Lakshmipur, Madaripur, Cumilla, Narayanganj, Bagerhat, Sherpur, Joypurhat, Naogaon, Bhola, Jhalokathi, Barguna, Sunamganj, Shariatpur, Panchagarh, Natore, Rajbari, Jashore, Netrokona: Pahela Baishakh was celebrated with various programs.

  • Munshiganj: A procession featured traditional symbols, and a folk fair showcased rural heritage.

  • Kishoreganj: Processions, stick games, and a 10-day Baisakhi fair were organized.

  • Natore: The District BNP held a procession and rally.

  • Bandarban: The Marma and Mro communities celebrated their New Year festivals ("Sangrai Powe" and "Chakran Powe") with processions, water-splashing, and cultural events.

The government emphasized an inclusive approach to this year's celebrations, ensuring the participation of all ethnic groups and communities. Cultural organizations and educational institutions organized a wide array of events, including folk music, dance performances, traditional fairs, and processions. In many areas, "Halkhata" ceremonies were observed by businesses, and traditional Bengali cuisine was enjoyed by all.

Law enforcement agencies maintained heightened security measures across the country to ensure peaceful celebrations.

END/AJ/MSS