BRAC University launched a two-day Pahela Baishakh festival on 15 April at its Merul Badda campus in Dhaka, featuring music, a rally and cultural programmes to mark the Bengali New Year.
BRAC University Vice-Chancellor Professor Syed Ferhat Anwar inaugurated the event and joined a procession with students, teachers and officials across the campus, which was decorated with traditional motifs and handcrafted artworks.
A cultural programme titled “Battolar Baisakhi Baran”, modelled on the long-running Ramna Batamul celebration organised by Chhayanaut, was staged by students.
The first day featured a puppet show, songs, performances, a flash mob, children’s games and a fair, the university said.
The second day will include a screening of the film “Ainabaji”, followed by Sylhet’s traditional Dhamail dance, the stage play “Sat Patrere Sandhane”, a debate and a session titled “Kathopakothan Banalata Express” with participation from the film’s cast.
A pantomime and puppet dance will conclude the day, while the fair will continue until 10pm.
BRAC University Pro-Vice-Chancellor Arshad Mahmud Chowdhury, Treasurer Ariful Islam, Registrar Dave Dowland and Joint Director of Student Life Tahsina Rahman attended the event alongside deans, chairpersons, teachers, students and members of the university community.
Director of the Office of Communications Khairul Bashar moderated the inauguration ceremony.
The festival is being organised through collaboration among BRAC University Drama and Theatre Forum, Cultural Club, Manon, Debating Club, Entrepreneurship Development Forum, Indoor Games Club, Film Club, Leadership Development Forum and the Office of Communications.
The university said such initiatives contribute to advancing Sustainable Development Goals, including quality education, reduced inequalities and sustainable cities and communities.
