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Pahela Baishakh celebrated sans outdoor events

Staff Correspondent | banglanews24.com
Update: 2021-04-14 11:54:22
Pahela Baishakh celebrated sans outdoor events by Afifa Nawar

People of Bangladesh have celebrated Pahela Baishakh, the first day of Bengali Calendar 1428, staying at home today (April 14), as all outdoor events have been suspended to check the coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak.

In line with Bangladesh and some parts of India, Bengali speaking expatriates generally celebrate the day in the host countries with various festivities including Mongol Shovajatra--a procession of good wishes participated by mass people at the dawn of the new year.

Unlike previous years, people have not gone to Ramna Botomul in colorful dress to celebrate the day for the sake of social distancing needed to contain the deadly disease.

The government has suspended all programmes of Pahela Baishakh asking people to celebrate the occasion at their homes.

However, newspapers have published special articles while TVs and radios are broadcasting different programmes on the day.

Pahela Baishakh is celebrated in Bangladesh and some Indian states, including West Bengal, Assam, Tripura, Jharkhand and Odisha on April 14 every year amid festivities and much enthusiasm.

Mughal Emperor Akbar introduced the Bangeli year during his rule to facilitate tax collection from 1556 to1605 AD.

While addressing the nation, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday (April 13) expressed optimism that the darkness of the coronavirus pandemic would fade away one day.

The premier urged everyone to follow health guidelines and celebrate Pahela Baishakh at home when the nation enters a strict weeklong lockdown to contain the upsurge of coronavirus transmission.

She said: "We have to remember that the lives of the people come first. If (we) survive, we’ll be able to rearrange everything." 

“I will request all to collect local seasonal fruits such as green mango, black berry, guava and water melon and enjoy the Noboborsho with all family members at home. Do not go outside unnecessarily. Do not crowd anywhere without any cause. Follow the health rules. Save yourself as well as your family members from the infection of coronavirus,” PM urged.

BDST: 1809 HRS, APR 14, 2021
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