The nation is celebrating Pahela Baishakh today, marking the first day of the Bengali New Year 1432, with vibrant festivities and cultural programmes taking place across the capital and throughout the country.

Rooted deeply in Bangladesh’s rich heritage, the day symbolises the joyful farewell to the old year and a spirited embrace of the new.

A significant turnout is expected nationwide, with particular excitement in Dhaka where the celebrations began at sunrise.

Cultural organisation Chhayanaut commenced its traditional musical programme under the ancient banyan tree (Batamul) in Ramna, upholding a tradition that has continued since 1967.

This year’s theme, ‘Amar Mukti Aloye Aloye’ (My liberation lies in light), set the tone for the morning’s performances featuring songs and recitations centred on light, nature, humanity and patriotism.

The programme began at 6:15am with the playing of the Ahir Bhairav raga, followed by a line-up of solo and group performances, including Rabindranath Tagore’s iconic ‘Amar Mukti Aloye Aloye.’

In line with tradition, men, women and children from all walks of life are dressed in vibrant Bengali attire.

Women don sarees with red borders, complemented by floral ornaments, bangles, and tiklis, while men wear panjabis and payjamas, reflecting the festive spirit of the day.

One of the most anticipated highlights of the day was the traditional New Year procession, Barshabaran Ananda Shobhajatra, brought out by Dhaka University’s Faculty of Fine Arts at 9:00am.

Formerly known as Mangal Shobhajatra, the procession has returned to its original name in an effort to make the celebrations more inclusive and reflective of Bangladesh’s diverse cultural landscape.

Organised in collaboration with the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, this year’s Barshabaran Ananda Shobhajatra featured vibrant presentations from 27 ethnic minority communities, each showcasing their unique cultural expressions and traditions as part of the colourful celebration.

The day’s events are being broadcast live on Bangladesh Television, Bangladesh Betar, and several private channels, allowing viewers across the country to be part of the celebrations.

In rural areas, traders are observing the tradition of opening their new account books, or Halkhata, offering sweets to customers as a token of goodwill and fresh beginnings.

Chief adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Sunday in a message greeted the country’s people on the occasion of Pahela Baishakh.

In his message, he said that Pahela Baishakh is one of the symbols of harmony.

‘The Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists, Christians, various communities and the peoples of the hills and plains of this country — all together, the people of this country have diverse languages, cultures and traditions,’ said Professor Yunus.

As the sounds of music echo through the streets and colourful processions sweep the cities, towns, and villages, Pahela Baishakh once again brings together the spirit of a nation—resilient, diverse, and joyously united.