Dhaka University cultural parliament welcomes the monsoon

To celebrate Barsha, the monsoon season and a timeless symbol of Bengal's cultural identity, the Dhaka University Cultural Parliament hosted the second edition of 'Ashar Parbon 1432' on Sunday, 29 Ashar 1432 (July 13, 2025), at the TSC Auditorium, University of Dhaka.

The event opened with a minute of silence in honour of the July Uprising, followed by a symbolic tree-planting ceremony promoting environmental awareness. Throughout the day, the TSC premises were filled with music, dance, and the vibrant presence of an entrepreneurship fair, showcasing traditional crafts and seasonal elements.

Professor M Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, Treasurer of Dhaka University, inaugurated the festival at 3:00 PM. Professor Dr Chowdhury Rafiqul Abrar, Education Adviser to the Government of Bangladesh, graced the occasion as Chief Guest, while cultural luminaries Tariq Anam Khan and Munmun Ahmed attended as Special Guests. The event was chaired by Dr Rasheda Rawnak Khan, Associate Professor of Anthropology and Moderator of the Cultural Parliament.

In his inaugural remarks, Professor Chowdhury said, "No matter how much sorrow life may bring, we must learn to celebrate its joys. I hope we embrace this season by rising above its inconveniences and creating a joyful atmosphere."

Tariq Anam Khan praised the initiative, saying, "The tree planting in Ashar, reminiscent of Santiniketan traditions, is a wonderful addition to this event—I wholeheartedly commend it."

Education Adviser C. R. Abrar noted, "Kalidasa, Lalon, Rabindranath, and Nazrul all wrote extensively about the monsoon. This celebration should inspire our youth to reconnect with centuries of Bengali literary and cultural tradition."

Following the opening remarks, cultural performances by members of the Dhaka University Cultural Parliament captivated the audience. The highlight of the evening was a mesmerising musical performance by the renowned band 'Joler Gaan'.

The entrepreneurship fair, held on the TSC grounds, featured stalls by emerging entrepreneurs and promoted local craftsmanship tied to the themes of monsoon and Bengali heritage.

Speaking about the festival, President Nafia Farzana Amia said, "The Dhaka University Cultural Parliament consistently works to foster authentic cultural expression. Through the youth, we aim to carry this cultural identity to both national and global platforms."

General Secretary Rawnak Jahan Rakamoni added, "We believe cultural practice nurtures the human spirit. We remain vocal against bigotry and violence. Ashar Parbon is yet another step towards deepening our connection with Bengali identity."

The Dhaka University Cultural Parliament continues its year-round efforts to promote pure Bengali culture and secular values through events such as the Spring Festival, Theatre Festival, and inter-university competitions.