Dhaka, 14 April (H.S.):

Bangladesh’s capital witnessed a peaceful celebration of the Bengali New Year on Tuesday as 20 platoons of Border Guard Bangladesh were deployed across Dhaka to ensure security during the Pohela Baishakh festivities. The large-scale deployment was aimed at maintaining order and allowing the traditional celebrations to proceed smoothly.

This year’s Baishakhi Shobhajatra 1433, organised by the Faculty of Fine Arts at Dhaka University, drew participants from all sections of society and concluded peacefully after beginning in the morning and returning to the faculty premises around 10 a.m. The procession featured scroll paintings and decorative figures, and the event remained calm throughout.

According to reports cited by local media and the official news agency, BGB personnel were stationed around key locations including Ramna Batamul, InterContinental Dhaka, Kakrail, Moghbazar, Shahbagh, the Bangladesh National Museum, and other major gathering points to ensure public safety and smooth participation.

Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, in his Pahela Baishakh message, described the first day of the Bangla calendar as a symbol of the nation’s history, culture and identity. He said the occasion carries a message of renewal, urging people to rise above narrow interests and dedicate themselves to human welfare.

He also highlighted the cultural richness of Baishakhi fairs, processions and Haatkhata celebrations, saying they strengthen social unity and reflect the diversity of Bangladeshi culture. The annual procession, which UNESCO recognised in 2016 as part of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity, once again passed off without incident.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar