Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina extended greetings to the people of Bangladesh on Pohela Boishakh, the Bengali New Year. She emphasized the festival’s importance as a symbol of Bengali national heritage and unity. Hasina mentioned that Pohela Boishakh has evolved into a significant cultural celebration for all Bengalis, transcending religious and ethnic boundaries.
Recalling past cultural repression in East Pakistan, Hasina noted the attempts by the Pakistani government to obstruct the celebration of Pohela Boishakh and centenary celebrations of Rabindranath Tagore. She highlighted that in independent Bangladesh, Pohela Boishakh has become a symbol of national awakening, unity, and harmony among the people.
Hasina pointed out that the Mangal Shobhajatra, a traditional mass procession during Pohela Boishakh, has been recognized as part of world heritage by UNESCO during the Awami League government’s tenure. She also mentioned the introduction of the “Boishakhi allowance” for employees on the occasion of the festival.
Expressing concern, Hasina stated that anti-liberation and unconstitutional forces have been attempting to undermine the festival, even trying to rename the Mangal Shobhajatra. She emphasized that the celebration of Pohela Boishakh reflects an anthropological tradition and should not be obstructed using religion as a divisive tool.
Hasina expressed hope that the continued celebration of Pohela Boishakh would contribute to the re-emergence of a secular Bangladesh.
