Due to the prevailing tensions in Chittagong Hill Tracts, the celebrations of Biju and other traditional new year activities are subdued, former Rangamati MP Ushatan Talukdar has said.
He called on the government to create a peaceful environment so that the peoples of the hills can joyously and safely observe their cultures in future.
The politician was speaking at the Rangamati Municipality premises on Tuesday at the inauguration of Biju, Sangrai, Baisu, Bihu, Sangkran festivals.
The traditional new years of almost all cultures of Bangladesh, marking the beginning of summer, take place in mid-April.
Other regional leaders including the heads of the festival committee also spoke at the event. The slogan for this year’s celebrations is “Unite to protect Jumma culture and rights.”
Ushatan expressed the hope that through the festival, the harmony and goodwill among the various ethnic communities of the region would be improved.
“I hope that we can observe our cultures in a safe and joyous environment,” he added.
The guests inaugurated the celebrations by releasing balloons at the municipality premises. Afterwards, artistes from various ethnic communities performed dances at the event, presenting the stories and cultures of their respective communities.
