Leaving behind the weight of the past, the Bengali New Year 1432 arrived with fresh hopes and a call for new beginnings. As always, the day began with music under the sprawling banyan tree at Ramna Park, where Chhayanaut ushered in the new year with a soulful performance in Raag Bhairavi at dawn. By 8:30 am, the event wrapped up with everyone joining their voices for the national anthem.

At 9 am, the traditional Ananda Shobhajatra rally began in front of Dhaka University’s Faculty of Fine Arts. The colorful procession moved through Shahbagh, TSC, the Central Shaheed Minar, Physical Education Center, and Doel Square before circling back to where it started. Thirty artists, with musical instruments in hand, sang patriotic songs along the way.

Just like the capital city Dhaka, people all across the country celebrated the day with joy and excitement. In every district, fairs popped up in public spaces. Children enjoyed rides like nagordola (Ferris wheels), bioscopes, puppet shows, and other traditional games. In some places, painting competitions and cultural programs were also held for kids. The New Year brought with it a wave of celebration across Bangladesh.

Here is how the day was celebrated across the country as reported by Bonik Barta correspondents:

Chattogram: The city saw colorful events and processions. From the Fine Arts Institute of Chattogram University to the celebration at CRB’s Shirishtola, festivities were held by institutions like Chattogram Shilpakala Academy, the Children’s Academy, and the City Corporation. However, events at DC Hill were canceled after an attack during preparations the previous night. CMP Additional Deputy Commissioner (Media) Mahmudah Begum said security had been heightened at all major event points.

Bhaluka, Mymensingh: People from all walks of life joined the New Year procession, including students, teachers, artists, and farmers. With vibrant masks, posters, placards, and traditional decorations, the event turned into a festival on its own.

Sirajganj: A New Year parade began in front of the DC’s office and returned to the same spot. Among those participating were Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Nazrul Islam, Superintendent of Police Faruk Hossain, and other top officials and community leaders.

Rajbari: A joyful parade started at the DC office and wound through the main streets before ending at the railway field named after freedom fighter Khushi. The DC said the day’s wish is for a peaceful, happy, and conflict-free year ahead.

Netrokona: Celebrations began with the national anthem and the song “Esho He Boishakh.” Later, a parade led by DC Banani Biswas went around the city. A separate procession was also held by the district BNP, led by Dr. Anwarul Haque and Dr. Rafiqul Islam Hilali.

Chuadanga: The day started with the national anthem, followed by a parade led by DC Mohammad Zahirul Islam and SP Khandaker Golam Mawla. The procession ended at the government college grounds.

Lakshmipur: A parade began from the Upazila compound and ended at the DC’s office. The event featured traditional lathikhela (stick dance), palanquins, and other cultural elements. A folk fair was later inaugurated by DC Rajib Kumar Sarkar.

Feni: The district administration organized a morning parade, cultural program, and a week-long folk and cultural fair. DC Saiful Islam emphasized celebrating the New Year while respecting the law and social values. Separately, BNP also held a parade and hosted a panta-ilish gathering at Feni Press Club.

Narayanganj: Students from various schools, colleges, and art institutions joined a colorful procession carrying masks shaped like tigers, owls, fruits, kings and queens, and other traditional paper crafts.

Khulna: A parade started from the railway station and passed through city streets before ending at Shahid Hadis Park. Government officials, teachers, students, and people from different professions took part.

Rajshahi: A New Year parade began at 7 am, moving through the city from C&B intersection to the Children’s Academy, where a cultural program brought everyone together.

Barisal: After the national anthem and a moment of silence for martyrs, Udichi artists opened the program with “Esho He Boishakh.” Though Udichi skipped its traditional three-day fair this year, the district administration launched a week-long celebration at Bell’s Park. The New Year parade featured elephants, horses, and colorful banners and placards.

Across the country, the Bengali New Year was embraced with open arms, bright colors, and the joyful spirit of tradition.