Ramna Park echoed with the sounds of celebration at dawn as Chhayanaut commenced its time-honoured New Year programme beneath the ancient banyan tree, marking the advent of 1432 in the Bangla calendar.
Titled "Amar Mukti Aloy Aloy" (My Freedom Lies in Light), the event began shortly after sunrise on Monday (14 April) with instrumental music setting the tone for a morning steeped in poetry, patriotism and nature’s embrace.
A blend of collective harmony and solo artistry shaped the morning’s proceedings.
Over 150 male and female performers presented a total of 24 pieces, including 9 group songs, 12 solo vocal performances and 3 recitations.
The stage—72 feet long and 30 feet wide—was set in a semi-circular fashion from east to west under the sprawling banyan canopy, adorned in colours matching the performers’ attire.
Male artists wore maroon panjabis paired with white pyjamas, while female performers donned off-white saris with maroon borders, exuding a dignified unity.
As is tradition, the event will conclude with a formal reading on the spirit of the new year by Chhayanaut’s executive president, Sarwar Ali, followed by the national anthem.
This cherished cultural observance, initiated by Chhayanaut in 1967, has been a symbol of resilience and cultural pride.
Preparations for this year’s celebration began three months ago at the organisation’s Dhanmondi premises, culminating with stage construction at Ramna Park from 8 April.
The festivities are being broadcast live across various television channels, online portals, and Chhayanaut’s official YouTube and Facebook platforms, ensuring the spirit of the Bangla New Year reaches audiences far and wide.
