Nation Celebrates Pahela Baishakh with Joy and Cultural Fervor

Nation Celebrates Pahela Baishakh with Joy and Cultural Fervor

Dhaka, April 14:

The Bengali New Year, Pahela Baishakh, was welcomed by people all over the country with a lot of enthusiasm, vibrant colors, and traditional celebrations. The celebration marks the first day of the Bengali calendar and holds deep cultural and emotional significance for the people of Bangladesh. It is a day that unites the nation, regardless of age, religion, or background, in a spirit of joy, harmony, and cultural pride.

People in traditional garb—men in panjabis and women in white sarees with red borders—started gathering in various parts of the country at dawn to participate in the festivities. Dhaka, the capital city, witnessed thousands of people gathering at Ramna Park to join the early morning cultural event “এসো হে বৈশাখ” (Esho He Boishakh), which is organized every year by Chhayanaut, one of the most respected cultural organizations in Bangladesh. The beginning of the day was enhanced by the performance of traditional songs, particularly Rabindra Sangeet. One of the main highlights of the Pahela Baishakh celebration is the Mongol Shobhajatra (procession for well-being), organized by the Faculty of Fine Arts at Dhaka University. This colorful and symbolic procession features large masks, replicas of animals like tigers and elephants, and traditional motifs. Mongol Shobhajatra, which UNESCO has designated an Intangible Cultural Heritage, reflects the people's hopes and dreams as well as their resistance to injustice and evil forces. Apart from the capital, every district and rural area organized fairs, known as Boishakhi Melas, where people enjoyed traditional foods, folk music, puppet shows, and games. Food stalls offered panta ilish (fermented rice with fried hilsa fish), green chilies, onion, and various local sweets. Families gathered to eat together and take pleasure in the festive atmosphere. Business communities across the country also celebrated Pahela Baishakh by observing the traditional Haal Khata, a custom of opening new account books. Customers were invited to shops, where they were greeted with sweets and refreshments. A commitment to honesty and business prosperity are both embodied in this practice, which represents a new beginning. Cultural programs were organized by various institutions, TV channels, and community groups throughout the day. Folk dances, songs, plays, and poetry recitations were performed to entertain and educate people about the rich heritage of Bengali culture. The celebration was also attended in various ways by private organizations, government offices, and educational establishments. The President and Prime Minister sent separate messages to the people on this special occasion, wishing them well and urging them to uphold the Pahela Baishakh values of peace, tolerance, and cultural unity. They emphasized the importance of preserving cultural traditions while working towards national progress and social harmony.

All over the country, security was tight, especially in major celebration areas. Thousands of police officers, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), and volunteers were deployed to ensure safety and maintain order. People were expressing happiness and optimism as they welcomed the new year, and the celebration continued to be peaceful and joyful. In a time when modern lifestyles often overshadow traditional values, Pahela Baishakh serves as a strong reminder of the nation’s cultural identity and unity. It exemplifies the people's tenacity and devotion to tradition, music, art, and unity. Hopes rise for a better, more prosperous, and peaceful future for everyone as another new year begins.

1.

“Ple Across the Country Embrace the Bengali New Year with Color, Culture, and Celebration”

2. “A Joyful Beginning Marked by Tradition, Unity, and National Spirit”

3. “From Mongol Shobhajatra to Panta Ilish – A Day of Cultural Pride and Festive Cheer”

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5. “Pahela Baishakh Brings Together All Walks of Life in a Celebration of Heritage and Harmony”

Shubho Noboborsho! Happy New Year in Bengal!