Pahela Baishakh procession to be named as 'Baishakhi Shobhajatra': Culture Minister
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.
