Dhaka has come alive in colour, sound and celebration today as Pohela Baishakh 1433 is being observed across the capital with a day-long programme of cultural events, fairs, exhibitions and concerts, blending traditional heritage with contemporary urban festivities.
Chhayanaut at Ramna Park
The day begins at 6:15 am at Ramna Park with Chhayanaut’s iconic New Year observance. Around 200 artists participate in a two-hour musical programme featuring choral pieces, solo songs, recitations and folk-inspired compositions marking the arrival of the Bengali New Year.
Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy celebrations
Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy is hosting a five-day festival, with the main Baishakh programme scheduled for 4:00pm at the National Theatre Hall. The event will feature a Baishakhi procession, folk performances, indigenous dances and participation from cultural troupes alongside state dignitaries.
Bangla Academy programmes
Bangla Academy begins its celebrations at 8:00 am with Baishakh music, a lecture session and cultural performances. The academy will also inaugurate its ‘Boier Arong’ book fair and Baishakhi Mela, alongside Nasir Ali Mamun’s 67th solo photography exhibition at Burdwan House.
Coke Studio Bangla and more
Beyond institutional programmes, a series of large-scale music festivals and concerts will also take place. A multi-artist show featuring Coke Studio Bangla, Level Five, Aftermath and DJ Riyan will be held at Chef’s Table Courtside on 100 Feet, Madani Avenue.
Carpe Diem – Lal Baishakhi 1433
Carpe Diem – Lal Boishakhi 1433 at Kamal Ataturk Park in Banani features Habib Wahid and Pritom Hasan as headliners, alongside bands including Renaissance and Nemesis.
Arka Baishakh 1433 at Aloki
Another major open-air festival, Arka Boishakh 1433, at Aloki, features live performances by Karnival, Shibu, Rocksalt, Firoze Jong and ModernOtaku, concluding on Pohela Baishakh with Arnob as headliner.
Chirkutt at universities
University campuses also join the celebrations, with fusion band Chirkutt performing at multiple venues. The band will appear at East West University at 11:00 am, North South University at 3:00 pm on April 14 and United International University on April 15. Their setlists will include favourites such as ‘Jadur Shohor’, ‘Ahare Jibon’, ‘Duniya’ and ‘Kanamachhi’, adding a youthful energy to the festivities.
Fairs and festivities
Multiple fairs are being held across the city, including the week-long BSCIC Baishakhi Mela, the SME Foundation’s large-scale fair in Agargaon and various festive events at premium venues and restaurants. These will feature handicrafts, food stalls, traditional games and cultural showcases.
