Bangladesh celebrates Pahela Baishakh; Anondo Shobhajatra marks end of fascism

The nation is celebrating Pahela Baishakh, the first day of the Bengali New Year 1432, today (14 April) with vibrant festivities, cultural events, and traditional enthusiasm across the country.

To mark the occasion, the government has organised elaborate programmes. People from all walks of life are participating in colourful processions, musical performances, fairs, and embracing traditional Bengali attire.

At Dhaka University, the customary rally has been renamed ‘Barshoboron Ananda Shobhajatra,’ replacing the decades-old title ‘Mangal Shobhajatra’. The procession began around 9am and concluded by 10am.

As dawn broke, crowds gathered across the Shahbagh, Ramna, TSC, and Suhrawardy Udyan areas.

Held under the theme "Harmony of the New Year, End of Fascism," this year’s rally started from the Faculty of Fine Arts and moved through Shahbagh, TSC, Shaheed Minar, Physical Education Center, Doel Chattar, and the road in front of Bangla Academy before circling back to its starting point.

Among the motifs carried in the Shobhajatra was the "Portrait of Fascism," depicting the face of fallen prime minister Sheikh Hasina, alongside a dove figure symbolising peace.

The renaming of the rally was announced during a press briefing at the Faculty of Fine Arts on Friday (11 April). The decision was finalised at a meeting chaired by Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Neaz Ahmed on 24 March.

Nur Hossain Sharif, a participant, shared with TBS, "This year, it feels like we’re truly celebrating in free air. There’s no fear or anxiety like before. I look forward to this parade every year — it represents our love for culture and unity."

A student named Humayra added, "The joy of being with so many people is incomparable. Celebrating our traditions like this creates a unique sense of togetherness."

Strict security measures were in place surrounding the event. University authorities and law enforcement maintained vigilant oversight throughout.

Meanwhile, renowned cultural organisation Chhayanaut welcomed the New Year with its 58th Pahela Baishakh programme at Ramna Batamul in the capital.

Themed "Amar Mukti Aloy Aloy" (My Liberation in Light), the event began at dawn with a soul-stirring rendition of Raag Bhairavi.

The two-hour programme featured 24 performances, including nine group songs, 12 solo renditions, and three poetry recitations. The entire event was broadcast live on Chhayanaut’s official YouTube channel, Facebook page, and on Bangladesh Television (BTV).

Extending greetings on the occasion, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus said on Sunday (13 April) that the people of Bangladesh remain united in harmony, irrespective of differences in belief, religion, or tradition.

"Tomorrow, the first day of Baishakh, symbolises this harmony. Everyone is celebrating in their own way while upholding their customs and traditions," he said while laying the foundation stone of Sampriti Bhaban at the Dhaka International Buddhist Monastery.

He emphasised that Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists, Christians, and all ethnic communities — whether from the hills or the plains — are part of one family, bonded by a rich heritage of language, culture, and tradition.

Leaders of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) also extended heartfelt greetings.

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman expressed hope that the New Year would inspire renewed aspirations and achievements. "May the warmth of Baishakh wipe away falsehood, injustice, lawlessness, and unrest," he said in his message.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir echoed this sentiment, describing Pahela Baishakh as a powerful expression of national unity. "It’s a time when animosity is set aside and hearts are filled with hope and abundance," he remarked.

Across the country, socio-cultural organisations and educational institutions are hosting cultural events, colourful rallies, and Baishakhi fairs. Business communities, especially in rural areas, are observing the traditional Halkhata (opening of new account books) and distributing sweets to customers as a gesture of goodwill.

The day is being observed as a public holiday.

National dailies have published colourful supplements, while Bangladesh Television and Bangladesh Betar are airing special programmes highlighting the cultural and historical significance of Pahela Baishakh.

To ensure peaceful and smooth celebrations, extensive security arrangements have been made in Dhaka and throughout the country.

Director General of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), Shahidur Rahman, stated that intelligence surveillance and special deployments — including mobile courts — are in place to prevent any form of harassment or misconduct, especially against women, at celebration venues.

Authorities are also taking measures to prevent any extremist or anti-state elements from disrupting the festivities, maintaining vigilance throughout the day.

As Pahela Baishakh unfolds, the people of Bangladesh stand united in joy, tradition, and hope for a brighter, peaceful future.