Bangladesh ushered in the Bengali New Year with vibrant celebrations today, as thousands of people across the country marked Pohela Boishakh with cultural events, traditional processions and community gatherings. Celebrations began early in the morning at Ramna Batamul, Dhaka, with a cultural programme organised by Chhayanaut. The programme opened at sunrise with a choral rendition of “Jago Alok-Lagane”, followed by a series of songs, poetry recitations and performances by around 200 artists. The programme concluded with the national anthem.
In Dhaka, one of the main highlights was the traditional Baisakhi Shobhajatra, which began at around 9:00 am from the Faculty of Fine Arts at University of Dhaka. The colourful procession drew participation from people of all ages, including students, teachers and cultural activists, creating a festive atmosphere across the campus and surrounding areas.
This year’s procession carried the theme “New Year’s Harmony, Democracy’s Resurgence” and featured symbolic motifs such as a rooster, elephant, pigeon, dotara and horse, each representing ideas of renewal, strength, peace, cultural roots and rural heritage. The rally moved through key city landmarks, including Shahbagh, Raju Sculpture and Bangla Academy, before returning to its starting point.
The Shobhajatra, recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2016, remains a powerful symbol of Bengal’s non-communal cultural identity and unity.
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman extended greetings to the nation, highlighting the festival’s deep connection to the country’s agrarian roots. He also announced new welfare initiatives, including the launch of a farmers’ card scheme aimed at improving livelihoods.
Amid tight security arrangements, including deployment of police and specialised units, celebrations remained largely peaceful. Participants from diverse backgrounds joined the festivities, with many also voicing support for cultural inclusivity and protesting recent attacks on traditional Baul communities.
From traditional fairs and halkhata ceremonies to music and processions, Pohela Boishakh once again brought together people across Bangladesh, reinforcing shared cultural values and hopes for harmony and prosperity in the year ahead.
