Shimu's Baishakh plans

Sumaiya Shimu

In her short career, Sumaiya Shimu has appeared in many hit TV plays, and continues to act with great enthusiasm. Ahead of Pahela Baishakh, the first day of the Bangla New Year, the artiste spoke to The Daily Star about her plans to celebrate the festival.

Where will you celebrate Pahela Baishakh this time?

Shimu: Dhaka. Usually I enjoy celebrating the festival in the country.

How do you see the New Year celebrations?

Shimu: The day is very special to me. Every religious community has their own festivals like Eid and Puja, but Pahela Baishakh is the festival of festivals for every Bangalee. 

What's your favourite attire on the occasion?

Shimu: Definitely sari in hues of red and white. I take light make up on the day. I also love putting flowers on the lock of my hair.

What's your take on the quintessential panta-ilish menu on the day?

Shimu: I take it very positively as it is the part of Bangalee's heritage. Without panta-ilish, we can't think of celebrating the day.

What are your Baishakhi plans this year?

Shimu: This time, I will celebrate the festival with my family. I will wear a sari, then go hang out with relatives and friends. 

Do you receive gifts on the special day?

Shimu: As a matter of fact, I'm flooded with gifts on the occasion. I also love giving gifts to others.

Any special memories from childhood Baishakh celebrations?

Shimu: Those were really wonderful days. On the occasion, I performed dance on the school premises and attended various cultural programmes. I also went to the Baishakhi fair and came back with traditional delicacies like murki, moa, batasha etc. I still get nostalgic about those times.