CHATTOGRAM: State Minister for Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs and Land, Barrister Mir Mohammad Helal Uddin, stated today that the celebration of Pahela Baishakh is a reflection of the non-communal spirit of Bangladeshis, uniting people regardless of race, religion or caste.
Speaking as the chief guest at the New Year celebration organized by the Chattogram District Administration at DC Hill this morning (April 14), the State Minister emphasized that this festival is not merely a formality but a unique expression of culture and communal harmony.
“This event reflects Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s vision of building a ‘Rainbow Nation.’ By bringing together people from all walks of life, a unique cultural and artistic environment has been created, which is truly commendable,” Barrister Helal remarked. He credited the collective efforts of everyone involved for making such an exceptional event possible after a long time.
Presided over by Chattogram Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Zahidul Islam Mia, the ceremony featured Alhaj Mohammad Abu Sufian, Member of Parliament for Chattogram-9, as the special guest. Other notable guests included Divisional Commissioner Dr. Mohammad Ziauddin and Chittagong Metopolitan Police Commissioner Hasan Mohammad Shawkat Ali.
In his greeting to the public, MP Abu Sufian noted, “By embracing this spirit, it is possible to build a developed, prosperous, and progressive Bangladesh. Such events play a crucial role in deeply involving the new generation with Bengali culture and heritage.”
The program featured group dances by students from the District Shilpakala and Child Academies, traditional “Bottle Dance” by ethnic minority groups from the hills, group and solo songs, recitations and traditional “Puthi Path” (folk poetry chanting).
Earlier, at 8:30 AM, State Minister Mir Helal inaugurated the “Baishakhi Shobhajatra” by releasing balloons in front of the Circuit House. The vibrant procession, adorned with colorful masks, placards and traditional motifs representing rural life, traveled through Kazir Dewri, Love Lane, and Buddhist Temple areas before concluding at DC Hill.
The procession saw spontaneous participation from high-ranking administrative officials, cultural activists, students and citizens from all professions, spreading a festive aura throughout the city.
