Chief Adviser Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus has extended warm greetings to the nation on the occasion of Pahela Baishakh, the the first day of the Bengali new year.
In a video message, he conveyed his best wishes ahead of the first day of the Bengali year 1432, which falls on Monday (14 April).
“Shubho Noboborsho 1432,” he declared in his address, offering heartfelt greetings to the people of Bangladesh.
“Bengali New Year is a day of unity and grand reunion for the Bengali nation.”
Highlighting the inclusive spirit of the festival, he noted that regardless of religion or ethnicity, Bengalis have long embraced the new year with fresh resolve and a renewed sense of consciousness.
“On this day, people cast aside the sorrow, burdens and despair of the past year, and come together in the spirit of harmony, friendship, joy and love,” he said.
Yunus also reflected on the historical origins of the festival, pointing out that Bengali New Year celebrations date back to the reign of Mughal Emperor Akbar.
“To streamline agricultural practices, Akbar introduced the Bengali calendar, counting it as the 'Fasli Year'. Over time, this tradition has become a powerful symbol of secular unity for all Bengalis,” he explained.
Calling on the nation to leave behind the anguish and adversity of the past, he said, “Let us greet the new year with renewed hope and enthusiasm.”
Referring to the people’s movement of 2024, Yunus said it has opened the path to a Bangladesh free from all forms of discrimination.
“This inspires us to work towards an inclusive, happy, prosperous, peaceful and vibrant nation,” he added.
The chief adviser concluded by expressing his best wishes for the success of all initiatives undertaken in celebration of the new year.
