Spring, harnessing the colours of life

Heralding the arrival of spring, the nation celebrated Pahela Falgun yesterday. Every year, this day is celebrated to welcome the season of flowers -- symbolising youth, vigour and love. People from all over the country rejoiced, donning colorful attires and floral garlands, with performances of music, dance, drama and poetry to welcome the most endearing season of all.

The Dhaka University area, as always, became the hub of all cultural activities. The famous 'Bakultala' of the Faculty of Fine Art was adorned in vibrant celebrations, as the day-long programme began with Indian classical music, followed by the presentation of dance, Panchokobi'r gaan, folk music and poetry recitation by soloists and cultural organisations. To add to the spirit of Pahela Falgun, a colourful procession was brought out, enhancing the fanfare for spring enthusiasts.

Along with 'Bakultala', cultural programmes were also held at three other venues across Dhaka -- Dhanmondi's Rabindra Sarobar, Bahadur Shah Park in Old Dhaka and Uttara Sector 3 Rabindra Sarani. They featured a wide range of cultural activites as well.

Jatiya Boshonto Utshab Udjapon Parishad has been celebrating the arrival of spring formally since 1995 in Dhaka, although it has been traditionally celebrated on the first day of spring for centuries. Today, Pahela Falgun is celebrated nationally, and is a major cultural event.