Dhaka University (DU) will celebrate the Bengali New Year 1433 on Tuesday with elaborate programmes, as preparations have been completed amid a festive atmosphere across the campus.
This year’s Baishakhi Shobhajatra ( Baishakhi procession) will begin at 9am in front of the Faculty of Fine Arts, carrying the theme “Noboborsher Oikotan, Gonotontrer Punorutthan” (Harmony of the New Year, Resurgence of Democracy).
The procession will start from the north gate (Gate-3) of the Faculty of Fine Arts, move towards Shahbagh intersection, take a U-turn, and continue past Raju Sculpture, the Teacher-Student Centre (TSC), Doel Chattar, and Bangla Academy before returning to the Faculty of Fine Arts.
Entry to the campus will be allowed only through Nilkhet and Palashi intersections, while all other entry points and surrounding roads will remain closed during the procession. Authorities have instructed participants to enter through designated gates and carry valid identification for security purposes, as joining the procession midway will not be permitted.
Continuing the university’s long-standing cultural tradition, the Shobhajatra will feature broad public participation showcasing the country’s folk heritage. This year’s procession will include five symbolic motifs-rooster, violin, dove, elephant, and horse-representing strength, creativity, peace, pride, and dynamism.
Around 35 musicians will perform the national anthem, “Esho He Baishakh,” and other patriotic songs during the procession, while approximately 200 students will carry the national flag.
Authorities have also imposed several restrictions to ensure safety and discipline. Wearing masks and carrying bags will not be allowed, although masks prepared by the Faculty of Fine Arts may be carried by hand. English placards, balloons, festoons, and fireworks have been prohibited.
Several entry points to Suhrawardy Udyan, including gates behind Raju Sculpture near Chhobir Haat and areas adjacent to Ramna Kali Mandir, will remain closed during the event.
All New Year-related programmes on campus must conclude by 5pm. Entry will be allowed until 5pm, after which only exit will be permitted. From 7pm on 13 April, only vehicles with university stickers will be allowed inside the campus, and no motorcycles or other vehicles will be permitted on the day of the event.
Residents of the university will be able to use only Nilkhet and Palashi gates for vehicle movement.
To facilitate smooth arrangements, help desks, a control room, and temporary medical camps will be set up near the TSC area. Mobile public toilets will also be installed at key locations, including Muhsin Hall field, TSC, Doel Chattar, and Curzon Hall.
Enhanced security measures, including CCTV surveillance and archways, have been installed across the campus.
As part of the celebrations, a cultural programme marking Chaitra Sankranti will be held at the Faculty of Fine Arts, with performances of folk songs and dance scheduled at Bakultala from 4pm to 10pm on 13 April.
