In a vibrant lead-up to Pahela Baishakh, the Chattogram district administration organised a large road-painting event on Sunday night, transforming a 1.5-kilometre stretch of the city into a canvas of folk motifs.
The initiative, which began at the Circuit House and passed through Love Lane and Kazir Dewri before ending at the historic DC Hill, saw the participation of hundreds of students and artists.
Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Zahidul Islam Mian inaugurated the event around 11:00pm. Artists from Chattogram University, the District Shilpakala Academy and the Shishu Academy worked in groups to adorn the asphalt with traditional Bengali designs, including vines, flowers, birds and folk patterns.
“As we colour this long stretch of road, we also aspire to enrich our lives and inspire future generations in the same spirit,” the DC said during the inauguration.
He emphasised that Bangladesh’s social fabric is built on communal harmony, where Hindus, Muslims, Christians and Buddhists celebrate festivals together while maintaining their unique identities.
“This unity in diversity is what defines us. Events like this symbolise the harmony we share,” he added, urging the younger generation to embrace and preserve the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Among those present were Chattogram Metropolitan Police Deputy Commissioner (promoted to Additional DIG) Hossain Mohammad Kabir Bhuiyan, and Additional Deputy Commissioners Md Sharif Uddin and Md Saiduzzaman Pathan.
The DC’s daughter, an internationally recognised child artist, also joined participants in painting the street.
Regarding security, senior police official Hossain Mohammad Kabir Bhuiyan said a coordinated plan has been implemented by the Chattogram Metropolitan Police to ensure a safe celebration. Units from the Crime Division, Detective Branch, Counter Terrorism Unit and City Special Branch will be deployed across the city to maintain order during the festivities.
