Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will attend “Rhidoye Dhaka 416,” the final event marking 416 years of historic Dhaka, at Lalbagh Fort in the capital on August 29.
Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) Administrator Abdus Salam announced the details at a press conference at Nagar Bhaban on Thursday.
He said the 416th anniversary of historic Dhaka will be celebrated through a range of colorful programs highlighting the city’s rich history and culture.
The special celebration has been organized under the theme “Festival, Pride and Responsibility.”
“The event is being organized with the expectation of reviving Dhaka’s heritage. When people live with Dhaka in their hearts, they will also develop a sense of responsibility to keep the city clean,” Salam said.
He said various programs will be held at different locations across the capital until September 5 as part of the celebrations.
Final event at Lalbagh Fort
The final event will begin at 4pm on August 29 at Lalbagh Fort, the DSCC administrator said.
“Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has kindly agreed to attend the event. The LGRD state minister and the administrator of Dhaka North City Corporation will also be present,” he said.
The event will feature dance performances by children, an exhibition of inventions by young scientists and an exhibition of books written about Dhaka.
There will also be stalls showcasing famous foods from Old Dhaka.
The prime minister will plant a tree and visit Lalbagh Fort during the event. He will inaugurate the program through the release of festoons and balloons, followed by the release of pigeons.
A traditional kite festival celebrating the heritage of Old Dhaka will also be inaugurated at the venue.
The special “Clean Dhaka, Green Dhaka” and mosquito-control campaigns will also be launched on the occasion and subsequently carried out in every ward, Salam said.
A documentary titled “Rhidoye Dhaka” will be screened at the event, while a commemorative book on Dhaka will also be unveiled.
The organizers also hope to unveil a commemorative postage stamp marking Dhaka Day, subject to approval from the relevant ministry.
The celebrations will conclude with a light-and-sound show and a cultural program after a short break, Salam said.