Industries Minister Nurul Majid Mahmud Humayun on Thursday said Baishakhi festival is a glorious legacy of the rich culture of Bangladesh. A kind of unity is formed centering around it among all people irrespective of race, religion, caste, or rich and poor.
He said that Baishakhi Mela is an integral part of the ancient cultural heritage of Bangladesh.
Minister was addressing the inaugural ceremony of the 15-day Baishakhi Mela-1429 started at the Bangla Academy premises with joint initiative of Bangladesh Small and Cottage Industries Corporation (BSCIC) and Bangla Academy.
Bangla Academy Director General Muhammad Nurul Huda presided over the inaugural function.
State Minister for Cultural Affairs KM Khalid,Industries Secretary Zakia Sultana and Cultural Affairs Ministry Secretary Md Abul Mansurwere present as special guests.
Speaking as the chief guest, Minister also said “although it has been organized in villages for thousands of years, nowadays it can be seen in cities and towns as well. Today's Baishakhi Mela organized at Bangla Academy premises is a shining example of that. It will provide the city dwellers with a chance to enjoy even if it lasts only for a short time,” he added. Speaking as the special guest, State Minister for Cultural Affairs KM Khalid said that the Pahela Baishakh is the biggest public and non-communal festival of Bengalis irrespective of religion and caste.
“The PahelaBaishakh or Bengali New Year celebrations were banned by the then Pakistani military government in 1958. Ignoring the government restrictions, the people of East Bengal, inspired by the nationalist cultural spirit, joined the New Year celebrations,” he added.
The 100 stalls of the fair have a variety of handicraft and products of cottage industries, made by BSCIC trained entrepreneurs. From the fair, buyers will be able to purchase handicrafts, nakshikantha, jute goods, boutiques products, jewelery, leather goods, organic foods, electronics products, honey and various other daily necessities. The fair will be open to all every day from 9 am to 8 pm.
