A festive spirit swept across Dhaka on Tuesday as thousands of people crowded public spaces across the capital to celebrate Pohela Boishakh, the first day of the Bengali New Year 1433, braving intense heat to join the festivities.
From early morning, large crowds gathered in Shahbagh, Ramna Park, TSC, and the Faculty of Fine Arts area of Dhaka University, with visitor numbers steadily increasing as the day progressed.Young men and women dressed in traditional red-and-white attire moved in groups, taking photographs and exchanging greetings. Many visitors also had “Shubho Noboborsho” painted on their cheeks near the Fine Arts Institute, adding color to the festive atmosphere.
Earlier in the day, the traditional Baishakhi procession began from the Faculty of Fine Arts between 9am and 10am, drawing thousands of students, teachers, and people from different walks of life.
This year’s procession featured five motifs—rooster, dotara (violin), dove, elephant, and horse—symbolizing strength, creativity, peace, pride, and dynamism.
Celebrations spread across the capital
Beyond Shahbagh and Ramna, festivities extended to several other parts of Dhaka, including Hatirjheel, Shahabuddin Park in Gulshan-2, Mugdha Mancha and Diabari in Uttara, Rabindra Sorobor in Dhanmondi, and the 300-feet road area in Bashundhara Residential Area.
Various recreational centers and resorts on the outskirts of Dhaka also witnessed heavy turnout as families and groups of friends gathered to mark the occasion.
Shariful Islam, who visited Ramna Park with his family from Rampura Metropolitan Project area, said the occasion held special meaning despite the scorching heat.
“The heat is uncomfortable, but the joy of this day is different. Being able to come out together with my family makes it special,” he said.
Flower shops around Shahbagh reported brisk business throughout the day, with roses, marigold garlands, and tuberose sticks in high demand, although several buyers complained about higher prices due to increased demand.
Hatirjheel emerges as major attraction
Hatirjheel emerged as one of the most popular destinations for Pohela Boishakh celebrations, drawing crowds from different parts of the city.
Footpaths and bridges were packed as visitors continued to arrive throughout the afternoon, filling the lakeside area with a festive atmosphere.
People were seen sitting by the water, chatting with friends and family, taking photos, and enjoying boat rides. Rows of boats moving across the lake created a vibrant scene for visitors.
A special boat race organized at Hatirjheel drew significant attention, with crowds increasing further in the afternoon to witness the traditional event.
Several rides, including Ferris wheels, were also set up for children and families, creating a lively environment marked by laughter and excitement.
Despite the intense heat, the festive enthusiasm remained strong. Visitors’ attire reflected the cultural spirit of the day, with many women wearing traditional white-and-red sarees, while men opted for white or light-colored panjabis. Younger visitors were seen in colorful fusion outfits and casual festive wear.
Md Manik, a resident of Merul Badda, visited Hatirjheel with his two daughters aged five and eight.
“I brought my daughters here to celebrate the New Year. They are very happy to see the boats and enjoy the open space. The heat is strong, but their happiness matters most,” he said.
On a bridge behind Police Plaza, a couple from Farmgate—Sadman and Mahima Akter—watched the boat race.
“This arrangement at Hatirjheel is very good. Boat racing is an important part of Bengali culture. We avoided other crowded places due to the heat, but the natural environment here feels refreshing,” they said.
Demand for water surges amid heat
With temperatures remaining high throughout the day, demand for drinking water and fresh coconut water surged across major celebration venues.
Vendors selling bottled water and green coconuts reported strong sales, with coconuts priced between Tk120 and Tk150.
Moin Rahman, a coconut vendor near Shahbagh, said demand remained consistently high.
“Because of the heat, demand for coconuts is very high. Sales have been good since morning,” he said.
Heightened security measures
Law enforcement agencies maintained heightened security across major celebration points in the capital.
Sub-Inspector Rafiqul Islam of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police, deployed in the Shahbagh area, said additional personnel were assigned to ensure public safety.
“Extra police personnel have been deployed at important locations so that people can celebrate safely,” he said.
Traffic Sergeant Mahmudul Hasan said special arrangements were made to manage congestion caused by large crowds.
“Some roads were partially restricted to vehicles to allow safe pedestrian movement,” he added.
Cultural programs enliven the city
Various cultural organizations arranged day-long programs featuring music, dance, and recitation across the capital.
Major venues such as Ramna Batamul and Rabindra Sorobor drew large audiences, with performances continuing throughout the day.
Journalist Alamin Hossain described working on Pohela Boishakh as a unique experience.
“Working on this day feels different. Alongside my responsibilities, I am also enjoying the festive mood around me,” he said.
Tanvir Ahmed, a private bank official visiting Rabindra Sorobor, said the festival offered an opportunity to reconnect socially.
“We remain busy throughout the year. Pohela Boishakh gives us the chance to meet friends and spend quality time together,” he said.
Overall, despite the sweltering heat, enthusiastic participation from people of all walks of life turned Dhaka into a vibrant hub of celebration, underscoring the enduring cultural spirit of Pohela Boishakh.
https://www.dhakatribune.com/407753
