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Jahangirnagar University (JU) celebrated Pahela Baishakh, marking the Bengali New Year 1433, on Tuesday with the theme ‘Harmony in the New Year, Revival of Democracy.’
The day began at around 8:15 am as Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Mohammad Kamrul Ahsan exchanged New Year greetings with teachers, students, officers, and staff at his residence.
In a brief address, he extended his greetings and emphasised unity and shared responsibility. Traditional Bengali songs, including the iconic “Esho He Boishakh Esho Esho,” were played, creating a festive atmosphere. Guests were served traditional foods such as jilapi, sandesh, kadma, watermelon, mango juice, batasha, puffed rice (muri), and khoi.
Later, at around 10:30 am, the Vice-Chancellor inaugurated the Pahela Baishakh programme at the old Arts and Humanities Faculty premises. A colourful Baishakhi procession was then brought out, which marched through the campus and ended at Selim Al Deen Muktamancha.
Addressing the gathering, Prof Ahsan said, “Jahangirnagar University has long been recognised as a centre of cultural excellence, adding that this year’s celebration was more diverse than ever before. Our goal is not only to prepare students for professional life, but also to develop them as morally enlightened individuals,” he said. “We leave behind the sorrows of the past year and move forward embracing positivity. Let goodness be our source of inspiration.”
“In the new year, let our commitment be to respect differing opinions and contribute to building a humane, value-based society,” he added.
Among others, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Academic) Prof Dr M Mahfuzur Rahman, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Administration) Prof Dr Sohel Ahmed, treasurer, deans, acting registrar, proctor, hall provosts, JUCSU leaders, members of the Women’s Club, teachers, students, officers, staff, and students of the university school and college took part in the programme.
Following the procession, the Vice-Chancellor inaugurated a fair at the Teachers-Students Centre (TSC) premises and visited various departmental programmes.
In the afternoon, a cultural programme was held at Selim Al Deen Muktamancha, jointly organised by the Teachers-Students Centre, the Students’ Welfare and Counselling Centre, and JUCSU.
The daylong celebration ended in a vibrant atmosphere, combining cultural heritage with a strong message of unity, tolerance, and democratic renewal.
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