Bangladesh celebrates Pahela Baishakh with vibrant celebrations
The programme at Ramna Batamul was jointly organised by Chhayanaut and Jatiotabadi Samajik Sangskritik Sangstha, drawing large crowds early in the morning.
Pahela Baishakh celebrations began today (14 April) with cities and villages across the country coming alive with festivity. People dressed in traditional red-and-white attire gathered in large numbers, creating a vibrant atmosphere marked by music, colors, and shared cultural identity.
Celebrations at Ramna Batamul began at 6ak with a traditional cultural programme, followed by the Baishakhi Shobhajatra at 9am from the Faculty of Fine Arts at University of Dhaka.
The programme at Ramna Batamul was jointly organised by Chhayanaut and Jatiotabadi Samajik Sangskritik Sangstha, drawing large crowds early in the morning.
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This year's procession theme emphasised the defeat of evil forces and the aspiration for a harmonious future. Large handcrafted figures of animals such as tigers, elephants, and peacocks, along with symbolic representations of mother and child, drew attention. Traditional motifs including rooster, dove, horse, elephant, and the musical instrument dotara highlighted strength, peace, and motion.
The roots of the Bangali New Year trace back to the reign of Akbar, who introduced the Bangla calendar to streamline agricultural taxation. Over time, it evolved into a cornerstone of Bengali culture. Traditions like "Hal Khata" continue to symbolize fresh beginnings and renewal.
Ahead of the Baishakhi Shobhajatra, the well-decorated mounted unit of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police took position at the very front of the procession. The disciplined presence of police personnel on horseback along a designated section of the procession created widespread interest and excitement among visitors.
Sub-Inspector Rafiqul Islam, who led the mounted unit, said 20 well-decorated horses from the DMP took part in this year's Baishakhi Shobhajatra, each specially trained and prepared for large-scale events like the procession.
He added that these horses are mainly thoroughbred riding horses, known for their agility, endurance and controlled behaviour.
On the ground, many participants were seen expressing interest in getting a closer look at the mounted unit. Some were busy taking photos, while others tried to approach the horses while maintaining a safe distance.
Notably, the Baishakhi Shobhajatra, one of the most anticipated events of the celebrations, featured this year's theme, "Harmony of the New Year, Revival of Democracy," reflected through masks, motifs and symbolic installations.
Ahead of the festivities, Faculty of Fine Arts students were seen yesterday (13 April) putting final touches to various masks and motifs, including a towering elephant structure on a makeshift wooden scaffold, symbolising heritage and hope.
As part of the official observance, special supplements carrying messages from the president, the prime minister and senior officials of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs are being published in national newspapers, highlighting the cultural significance of the occasion.
This year's celebration reflects a coordinated national effort where state initiatives, folk traditions and civic participation have come together in a unified cultural festival.
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman extended his greetings to the nation last night (13 April), saying: "Farewell 1432. Welcome Bangla New Year 1433. Pahela Baishakh is the first day of the Bengali New Year. On this occasion, I extend my heartfelt greetings and congratulations to the people of the country and all Bangla-speaking people around the world.
"May the New Year bring happiness, peace and prosperity to everyone's lives. Once again, I extend my sincere greetings to the people of the country. Happy New Year 1433," he added.
