Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA) has announced a five-day programme to celebrate Chaitra Sankranti and Pohela Boishakh, marking the arrival of Bangla New Year 1433. The festivities will feature a diverse line-up of cultural performances, exhibitions and traditional celebrations.
The programme will begin on April 13, the last day of the Bengali year (Chaitra Sankranti), and continue until April 17 (Boishakh 4). Organised with the support of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, the initiative will bring together prominent cultural figures alongside senior government officials, including the Minister for Cultural Affairs, the Information Minister and other dignitaries.
The event will include discussion sessions, a folk art exhibition and a range of traditional and contemporary performances. Highlights include an orchestral presentation titled “Tora Shob Joydhwoni Kor”, alongside dhamail dance, jari gaan, pot gaan and puthi recitations, as well as ensemble dance performances.
Audiences can also expect a traditional jatra performance, “Rahim Badshah Rupban Konya”, a colourful procession across the academy premises, and a mass rendition of the national anthem. Folk traditions will be prominently showcased through kabigan, gazir gaan, gambhira and baul songs.
The programme will further feature performances by academy artistes, invited guest performers and bands, along with acrobatic displays and presentations by ethnic minority communities under the theme “Boishakhi Festival in Ethnic Diversity”.
A puppet show titled “Bachherer Biye”, performed by Bishwarupa Puppet Theatre, is also part of the line-up. In addition, a large-scale choreography featuring 50 dancers, “Esho He Boishakh”, along with Jalal Geeti, Bhawaiya and Baul songs, will be staged during the celebrations. Film screenings are also scheduled as part of the cultural programme.
Alongside the performances, a five-day Boishakhi fair will be held on the academy premises from April 13 to 17, offering visitors a festive marketplace experience in keeping with the spirit of the Bengali New Year.
