Jahangirnagar University (JU) has turned festive as final preparations are underway to celebrate the Bengali New Year, with students, teachers, and cultural organisations busy completing last-minute arrangements.
This year’s celebrations will be held under the theme “Noboborsher Oikotan, Gonotontrer Punorutthan” (Harmony of the New Year, Resurgence of Democracy).
The campus, especially the Old Arts Building area, has been adorned with colourful decorations.
Students of the Fine Arts department are working round the clock to prepare a range of traditional motifs for the Baishakhi procession, using bamboo, wood, paper, and paint to depict rural heritage, animals, masks, and other folk elements.
According to students, the artworks reflect both cultural traditions and contemporary social messages.
The university has planned a two-day programme marking Chaitra Sankranti and Pohela Baishakh.
On 14 April, the day will begin with an exchange of greetings at the Vice-Chancellor’s residence, followed by the formal inauguration at Mrittika Moncho through the lighting of lamps and a collective musical performance.
The Baishakhi procession, organised by the Fine Arts department, will start from Mrittika Moncho and conclude at Selim Al Deen Muktamancha.
Students from various faculties, departments, and residential halls, along with campus organisations, are expected to take part. Prizes will be awarded to the best participants.
In the afternoon, a fair and traditional food arrangements will be held in TSC area, while cultural programmes will continue into the evening.
The Department of Bangla and the Department of Drama and Dramatics have also arranged separate cultural events, featuring music, dance, puppet shows, folk songs, kirtan, and jarigan.
University authorities said the arrangement aims to highlight Bengali culture and heritage while fostering unity, harmony, and a festive spirit among students.
