May the dreams of the future radiate with the colours of Boishakh

Pahela Boishakh is the opening of a new horizon in the lives of the Bengalis. It is not just a day of celebration, but a reflection of the Bengali culture, which is rooted in the deepest part of our tradition, culture and identity. When the Pahela Boishakh of 1432 B.E. arrives at our doorstep, like nature, we feel a new pulse. The weariness of the old days is shaken off, and the inspiration to start a new life arises. And the colours of this renaissance should color our dreams of the future.

The month of Boishakh is a shining example of the transformation of nature. After the scorching heat of the harsh summer, nature regains its youth. The surroundings are filled with the red glow of Krishnachura, Radhachura and Jarul. The sweet scent of mango buds and the chirping of birds fill the air of Bengal. Just as nature sheds its old shell and takes on a new form during this time, Pahela Boishakh brings a message of new hope and potential to the lives of the Bengalis. This festival calls for leaving behind all the sorrows and failures of the old year and embracing life with new enthusiasm.

The celebration of Pahela Boishakh is a colourful picture of Bengali tradition and culture. On this day, the Bengali nation unites regardless of religion or caste. The festive atmosphere is seen everywhere, from rural fairs to city streets. The combination of nagardola, puppet dances, folk songs, and delicious food at the Boishakhi fair is a reflection of the folk life and culture of Bengalis. Through the Halkhata festival, businesspeople open new accounts, which indicates a new path in the economic field. The Mangal Shobhajatra, now dubbed Ananda Shobhajatra, has become an integral part of Pahela Boishakh, which is appreciated all over the world as a symbol of peace, prosperity and non-communal spirit. This procession showcases various elements of Bengali folk art, culture and tradition, which remind us of our roots.

Panta-Ilish is an integral part of Pahela Boishakh. Although there are many debates about its origin, this tradition enhances the festive atmosphere. Various types of folk dances and songs increase the joy of this day many times over. The courtyards of houses and the streets of the city are painted in the colours of alpana, which is an aesthetic expression of art and creativity. All these traditions are not only a means of giving joy, but they are also a reflection of the Bengali lifestyle, values and relationship with nature.

New Year means the inspiration to dream new dreams, to walk a new path. Starting from our personal lives to national life, we hope for progress in every aspect. We dream of social harmony, economic prosperity and cultural development. Pohela Boishakh inspires us to dream those dreams once again. We wish for a society where there is no violence, hatred, or discrimination and where everyone lives together in peace. In the economic field, we want an environment where equal opportunities are created for everyone and everyone can participate in the development of the country. In the cultural field, we want our traditions to be richer and to occupy a more dignified position in the global platform.

Love for nature is another important message of Pahela Boishakh. The month of Boishakh reminds us of the incredible beauty and importance of nature. Just as the arrival of rain after the harshness of summer revives nature, it also instils new hope in our lives. The commitment to protecting the environment should be more substantial on this day. Let us maintain a friendly relationship with nature and leave a healthy and beautiful world for future generations—this is our goal.

The celebration of Pahela Boishakh has gained a new dimension in the digital age. Thanks to technology, today we can enjoy the joy of this festival from any part of the world. Through virtual platforms such as Boishakhi fairs, online cultural programs, and the exchange of greetings through social media, Pahela Boishakh has become a global festival. By utilising this new possibility, we can spread our culture to a broader extent and establish solidarity with people from different parts of the world.

Pahela Boishakh is not just a day; it is a symbol of Bengalis’ unity and solidarity. On this day, we forget our differences and personal interests. Together, we celebrate our Bengali identity. This unified spirit can add significant strength to our national life. This unity is essential in building a developed and prosperous Bangladesh that can face any adversity.

The role of Pahela Boishakh is vital in introducing the new generation to their heritage and culture. Today’s children may be getting used to urban mechanised life, but the joyful atmosphere of Pahela Boishakh helps them find their roots. By participating in the Boisakhi Mela and other traditional events, they can learn about different aspects of Bengali culture and learn to respect it. This is how our culture survives from generation to generation.

Pahela Boishakh provides a unique opportunity to showcase Bengali culture to the world. Mangal Shobhajatra is part of the world heritage today, and it showcases our art, culture, and non-communal spirit in the world court. Other traditional celebrations can also introduce our culture to the world. Through this, we can inform the world about our rich heritage and send the message of a tolerant and pluralistic society.

Pahela Boishakh 1432 is a day to weave new dreams. In this colourful atmosphere of Boishakh, we make our dreams of the future brighter. We dream of a happy, prosperous and peaceful Bangladesh, where every person will have the opportunity to develop their full potential. May the colours of this Boishakh make our dreams come true. Leaving behind the filth and failures of the old days, we move forward with new enthusiasm, colouring each day of our future with the colours of Boishakh.

Dr. Matiur Rahman is a researcher and development worker.

matiurrahman588@gmail.com