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On Sunday, Bangladesh joyously welcomed Pahela Baishakh, the first day of the Bangla calendar, marked by vibrant traditional festivities and widespread enthusiasm.
The celebrations commenced at dawn as artistes from Chhayanaut serenaded the arrival of the new year under Ramna Park's banyan tree with Rabindranath Tagore’s iconic song “Esho hey Baishakh, esho, esho”.
Across the nation, people from diverse backgrounds gathered at various historic and popular locations to celebrate the onset of the Bangla year 1431, filled with renewed hopes for peace and prosperity, reports UNB.
In Dhaka, the day's highlight was the Mangal Shobhajatra procession, which began at 09:18 am from the Faculty of Fine Arts at Dhaka University. This procession, emblematic of unity and cultural pride, featured participants in vivid costumes and with symbolic artifacts, parading past landmarks like Shahbagh, Dhaka Club, and Shishu Park.
The Faculty of Fine Arts played a pivotal role, showcasing the artistic and creative expressions that underpin Bangladesh’s rich cultural heritage.
The event reinforced the institution's dedication to cultural preservation and promotion.
As part of the celebrations, traders and shopkeepers inaugurate their ‘Halkhata’ (new account books) and offer sweets to guests, adhering to time-honoured traditions.
Culinary traditions are also on full display as many enjoy ‘panta-bhat’ (watery rice) with fried Hilsa, lentils, green chili, and onions, a testament to the rich culinary heritage of the region.
Stringent security measures ensured the day's peaceful progression, with restrictions on vuvuzelas to prevent any disturbances. Police provided escorts for the Mangal Shobhajatra and monitored the event from strategic vantage points, guaranteeing a safe environment for all attendees.