PHOTO: ANISUR RAHMAN

MOSHIUR RAHMAN SHAMS

Pahela Baishakh, the Bengali New Year, is one of the most widely celebrated cultural occasions in Bangladesh. While its essence lies in welcoming a new beginning through shared traditions, its expression varies from one city to another. The celebration is shaped by local institutions, cultural hubs, geography, as well as long-standing customs. From university campuses to riversides, each city adds its own flavour to the festivities.

DHAKA

In Dhaka, the celebration is both symbolic and grand. The cultural core of Pahela Baishakh lies at Ramna Batamul, where Chhayanaut hosts its iconic musical programme. Another focal point of the day is the “Baishakhi Shobhajatra”, organised by the Faculty of Fine Arts at Dhaka University. The procession is recognised by UNESCO for its cultural significance. It moves through Shahbagh and surrounding areas, drawing massive crowds. Throughout the day, key hubs such as TSC, Suhrawardy Udyan, and Dhanmondi Lake host fairs, concerts, and food stalls, with festivities continuing well into the afternoon.

CHATTOGRAM

In Chattogram, Pahela Baishakh centres around DC Hill, organised by local cultural alliances. DC Hill is widely regarded as the city’s cultural centre, with programmes running throughout the day featuring music, dance, and recitation. The open hill setting creates a more relaxed atmosphere compared to Dhaka’s dense crowds. Additional events take place at venues such as the Shilpakala Academy and the CRB area, though DC Hill remains the symbolic heart of the celebration.

RAJSHAHI

In Rajshahi, the celebration is strongly anchored within the University of Rajshahi campus. The university hosts rallies, cultural performances, and fairs, drawing both students and city residents. Beyond the campus, T-Dam and other banks of the Padma River serve as key gathering points, where people come together for traditional food, music, and socialising. Compared to larger cities, Rajshahi’s celebrations feel more community-driven and often extend into the afternoon.

KHULNA

In Khulna, Pahela Baishakh is distinctly campus-centred, much like in Rajshahi. Celebrations largely revolve around Khulna University and KUET, where rallies, cultural programmes, and fairs are organised by students and faculty. These campus-based events define the city’s festive character. At the same time, areas such as Shibbari Mor and surrounding urban spaces host community fairs, linking academic celebrations with the wider public.