BRAC University launched a two-day festival on the Merul Badda campus in Dhaka (Wednesday, 15 April 2026) marking Pahela Baishakh, the first day of the Bangla calendar, with music, a colorful rally and a myriad of activities, a press release said.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Syed Ferhat Anwar inaugurated the festival in the morning and joined the procession brought out by students, teachers and officials to traverse the campus, which was draped in traditional motifs, art and handcrafted pieces.
“Battolar Baisakhi Baran”, a Baishakh-welcoming cultural program resembling a national one that has long been organized at Ramna Batamul in Dhaka by institution Chhayanaut, was staged by the students.
There was also a puppet show, songs and cultural performances, a flash mob, popular children’s games and a fair.
The festival will begin tomorrow (16 April 2026) with the screening of film “Ainabaji”, followed by Sylhet’s traditional “Dhamail” dance, the stage play “Sat Patrere Sandhane”, a lively debate and a program titled “Kathopakothan: Banalata Express”, in which the film’s cast will participate.
In addition, there will be a pantomime and puppet dance at the end of the day while fair will continue to run until 10:00pm.
Pro-Vice-Chancellor Arshad Mahmud Chowdhury, Treasurer Ariful Islam, Registrar Dave Dowland, Joint Director of Student Life Tahsina Rahman along with deans and chairpersons of various departments, teachers and students, and members of the university family were present at the event.
Khairul Bashar, director of the Office of Communications, moderated the inauguration ceremony.
The festival is coming about through the collaboration of BRAC University Drama and Theatre Forum, BRAC University Cultural Club, BRAC University Manon, Debating Club, Entrepreneurship Development Forum, BRAC University Indoor Games Club, Film Club, BRAC University Leadership Development Forum and the Office of Communications.
By organizing such festivals, BRAC University advances Sustainable Development Goals, including Quality Education (SDG 4), Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10) and Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11).
