StaffCorrespondent

Amidst a shifting political landscape, this year’s Pahela Baishakh unfolded with a renewed vigour in Bangladesh, embracing both traditional festivity and powerful political symbolism.The capital and other parts of the country buzzed with colour, music and hope as thousands of people came together to welcome Bangla New Year 1432, marked notably by the introduction of ‘Ananda Shobhajatra’, a new version of the iconic procession, carrying the theme “Nababarsh-er Oikotan, Fascibader Oboshan” — “The Harmony of New Year, End to Fascism.”The morning of April 14 saw Dhaka University’s Faculty of Fine Arts become the epicentre of celebration and protest. From 8 am, preparations buzzed with energy, culminating in a grand procession led by Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Niaz Ahmed Khan at 9 am.Unlike previous years, when the Mongol Shobhajatra was the hallmark of Pahela Baishakh, this year’s ‘Ananda Shobhajatra’ not only kept the festive essence intact but also signalled a conscious departure from the past — both culturally and politically.

Large symbolic motifs took centre stage: a fierce ‘Fascist Face’, a white dove of peace, and even a watermelon motif symbolising solidarity with Palestine.National icons such as the Royal Bengal Tiger and Hilsa also joined the parade, alongside an eye-catching 100-feet-long painting, horse-drawn carriages and decorated rickshaws.

However, the celebrations were not without drama. Two motifs, including the effigy of the ‘monstrous fascist face’ and the dove, were set ablaze in a suspected arson attack inside the university compound early Saturday.

CCTV footage revealed a man scaling the gate and igniting the artwork with flammable liquid.

Despite the setback, students and alumni rallied overnight to rebuild the motifs, showcasing defiant creativity in the face of attempted suppression.

Participants hailed the significance of this year’s Shobhajatra. Private university student Raju Ahmed remarked, “This year’s New Year celebration is a bit exceptional. It sends a message of ending fascism.”