We welcome the Bangla New Year 1432 commencing with today's sunrise. This year we are celebrating Bengali New Year barely a fortnight after the Eid-ul-Fitr. Similar to most countries, English calendar is followed in our country for all purposes relating to civic life and government activities, but Bengali New Year is deeply rooted in our hearts.
However, the occasion bears testament to our rich history of diversity and inclusiveness, making it a celebration practically by uniting the people of our country in cultural harmony.
Traditional colourful celebrations through display of folk art, group processions, holding fairs and local sporting events, roaming music shows, art exhibitions and a traditional stick-fighting event (Lathi Khela) will be organized on Pohela Boishakh - which have and will be adding an extra lair of elation to us all. Then again, it was an ominous sign following the secret burning of the "Face of Fascism" artwork in the wee hours of 10 April. We demand immediate identification of the culprits while bringing them under justice.
We believe, vandalizing, damaging or burning creative and meaningful artworks as a serious crime.
Understandably, the scale of joy and merriment will be different after the fall of an autocratic regime followed by a countrywide uprising last year. It is promising to note that the government has undertaken elaborate programmes to celebrate Pohela Boishakh in an inclusive manner this year by involving people from all ethnic groups. The programmes will be implemented by relevant ministries, divisions, educational institutions, district and upazila administrations, metropolitan cities, municipalities and various cultural organizations. Each community will showcase its unique cultural identity through traditional music and instruments.
Given the tumultuous past 9 months passing through one after another security challenges, we expect law enforcing agencies to remain in a state of high alert. We also advise all to celebrate Pohela Boishakh in a restraint manner, thus shun wild and reckless jubilations triggering chaos. At the same time, while public safety should be our top priority, it is also important that the traditional rituals and customs of the day are allowed to be observed with the same fervour we have always demonstrated.
Most important is that the day offers a unique opportunity to prove ourselves before the world - we are one people shared by one history, and we look forward to co-exist as proud Bengalis for many centuries more.
We wholeheartedly believe 1432will bring prosperity and happiness to all.
Shubho Noboborsho
