BNP Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed on Monday described Pohela Baishakh festivities, including the traditional Boishakhi procession, as an integral part of Bangladesh’s cultural heritage and identity.
“This Boishakhi procession, this Anondo Shobhajatra or any of the joyful celebrations of Boishakh are not mere rituals but part of our cultural heritage. The Baishakhi fairs, the palm-leaf fans, and bamboo flutes are all elements of our unique tradition,” he said.
The BNP leader made the remarks while speaking at a New Year celebration program organised by the Jatiotabadi Samajik Sangskritik Sangstha (JASAS) at Shatayu Prangon (Rani Mancha) in Ramna Park.
He also extended Bengali New Year greetings to the audience.
Salahuddin said celebrations must remain rooted in local tradition and not be reduced to commercial products.
“We celebrated in our way with fermented rice and hilsa. Let no one distort or commodify our culture. As citizens of this country, we will continue to preserve and nurture the heritage that has evolved over thousands of years,” he said.
He warned against cultural distortions, saying: “It is our responsibility to eliminate those alien elements that seek to corrupt our historical and cultural values.”
Salahuddin said that BNP celebrated Pohela Boishakh nationwide to reflect Bangladesh's heritage, linking it to the traditional Bengali calendar introduced during Emperor Akbar's time.
He said this culture is not just for Muslims but for all Bangladeshis, regardless of religion or background, to celebrate together in unity.
“We, who believe in Bangladeshi nationalism, uphold a culture that transcends religious, class, or ethnic boundaries. This is our shared identity,” the BNP leader said.
