Pohela Falgun, heralding the arrival of spring, the king of all seasons was observed across the country with flowers, poems, songs and dances. Photo: Ridwan Adid Rupon

Hindustani classical music mesmerised crowds as the Bengal Classical Music Festival 2013 was held in November.

Chobi Mela, the first festival of photography in Asia, is one of the most exciting organizations, initiated by Drik was held between January 25 and February 7.

On victory day thousands gathered at the Suhrawardy Udayn to sing national anthem.According to organizers, there is no other officially recorded example of chanting national anthem with the participation of so many people together.

On its third year in 2013, Hay festival had arranged to see some of the world's leading thinkers and writers at this fresh, energetic festival: they include Tariq Ali, Ahdaf Soueif and Pankaj Mishra. Truly, in the words of Welsh national poet Gillian Clarke: 'To be here is a privilege. This is a space where language and writing matters– life and death matters – and that's an amazing aspiration.'

On the lawns of ITC-SRA (the heart of pure classical music in India) a galaxy of artistes, scholars and leading personalities of Bangladesh and India assembled under a huge blue arched canopy resembling an open sky. The occasion marked the first time roster of eminent artistes who had gathered to celebrate the glory of Bangla songs on such a grand scale.

"Celebrating Life": the composite competition, inviting films, photographs and lyrics entries that showcase various aspects of life in Bangladesh was organized jointly by Star Insight Magazine of The Daily Star and Standard Chartered Bank. Over a dozen received 'Honourable Mention' awards, along with crests and certificates as the name of the Winners were announced at the Award Giving Gala Ceremony at the end of September.

Pohela Falgun, heralding the arrival of spring, the king of all seasons was observed across the country with flowers, poems, songs and dances.