DHAKA : Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury
today said the Pahela Baishakh procession will be brought out under the name
‘Baishakhi Shobhajatra’ instead of ‘Mangal’ or ‘Ananda’ Shobhajatra.
“The government has decided to adopt the name ‘Baishakhi Shobhajatra’ to end
ongoing debates and move forward with renewed enthusiasm,” he told
journalists after a meeting at the conference room of the Ministry of
Cultural Affairs at the Secretariat, marking the upcoming Bangla New Year
1433.
The minister said there had long been discussions and criticisms surrounding
the celebration of Pahela Baishakh, which he described as undesirable and
potentially harmful to society. “To put an end to all controversies, the
government has taken the decision,” he added.
He said preparations for the procession at Dhaka University’s Fine Arts
faculty are progressing in full swing, adding that the procession will, as
usual, begin from the faculty premises.
Highlighting the historical significance of Pahela Baishakh, the minister
said the festival is deeply rooted in the agrarian traditions of Bengal,
evolving around agriculture, seasonal cycles, and the beginning of a new
year.
“It is a universal festival of all communities, including Chakma, Marma,
Tripura, Garo and other ethnic groups,” he said, adding that the present
government is committed to unity in diversity.
DU Vice-Chancellor (VC), directors general of Kazi Nazrul Institute, Bangla
Academy, Bangladesh National Museum and Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, along
with the Commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan Police and senior officials of
the concerned ministries.
The minister said Pahela Baishakh symbolizes joy and prosperity, and the
festival’s essence lies in welcoming the New Year by leaving behind past
grievances and aspiring for a better future.
He noted that the recent controversy over the naming of the procession would
now come to an end.
He also informed that daylong cultural programmes will be held at various
venues in the capital, including Ramna Batamul, to mark the occasion, with
necessary preparations already completed by the concerned organisations.
Regarding UNESCO, the minister said the authorities concerned will be
formally informed about the naming decision.
The Cultural Minister said that the highest level of security measures will
be in place for Pahela Baishakh celebrations, with law enforcement agencies
deployed to prevent any untoward incidents.
Meanwhile, a press release issued by Dhaka University on Tuesday last said
the procession will begin at 9:00am from the Faculty of Fine Arts, proceeding
through Raju Sculpture, Doel Chattar and Bangla Academy, before returning to
the starting point.
