Women and Children Affairs and Social Welfare Adviser Sharmeen S Murshid spoke at program organized on the occasion of Bangla New Year 1432 at the Bangladesh Shishu Academy premises today. Photo: PID

DHAKA, April 14, 2025 (BSS) - Women and Children Affairs and Social Welfare Adviser Sharmeen S Murshid today said Pahela Baishakh is not only a date in the calendar rather it stands as a symbol of cultural heritage, love, and celebration.

Speaking as the chief guest at the inauguration ceremony of “Pahela Baishakh” (Bangla New Year) celebration at the Bangladesh Shishu Academy here this morning, she said “Pahela Baishakh” is a time to let go of past sorrows and challenges as well as embrace the New Year with renewed hope and determination.

The adviser described the aspirations in the eyes of today’s young generation as the guiding light for the nation’s future. 

Encouraging children to stay curious and engaged, she urged them to pursue knowledge and good deeds.

At the outset, the event began with the national anthem and traditional Baishakhi song “Eso He Baishakh.” 

Momtaz Ahmed, Senior Secretary to the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, and Dilara Begum, Director General of Bangladesh Shishu Academy, among others, were present.

Sharmeen Murshid stressed the importance of respecting parents, teachers, and elders, and called upon children to focus on their studies and cultivate moral values.

She made a commitment on this New Year’s Day to foster harmony, reject violence and hatred, uphold social unity and order, and stand firm against corruption, drug abuse, violence, and superstition.

Mentioning that on the sacrifices behind the making of a free, democratic, and progressive Bangladesh, the adviser highlighted the significant role of children, students, and the general masses in the July-August uprising of 2024, which paved the way for a establishing the new Bangladesh. 

This year’s "Barshobaran Ananda Shobhajatra" marked a renewed momentum in our national journey, she added.

Children enthusiastically took part in various cultural segments of the celebration, including traditional Baishakhi festivities, Nagardola rides, storytelling, Gambhira performances, Bioscope shows, oiled banana tree climbing, Sangrai water games, dances, songs, and poetry recitations.