DHAKA, Sept 30, 2025 (BSS) - The government for the first time officially celebrated Sharadiya Durga Puja today with a traditional Jatra-Pala performance at the historic Suhrawardy Udyan in the capital.

The two-day cultural festival, jointly organized by the Ministry of Cultural Affairs and Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, began with a discussion session at the Mukto-Monch (open-air) stage.

Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy Director General and noted poet Sheikh Rezauddin Ahmed Stalin presided over the session. 

Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs Mohammad Harunur Rashid, Shilpakala Academy's Theatre and Film Department Director Deepak Kumar Goswami, Puja Udjapon Front Convener Ramesh Dutta and Bangladesh Jatra-Shilpo Unnayan Parishad President Gazi Belayet also spoke at the event as special guests.

Speaking on the occasion, Stalin said cultural unity must prevail above religious divisions. 

"From the blood of the July revolution to the dreams of Tagore and Nazrul, we carry forward a new cultural narrative rooted in harmony and peace," he added.

Harunur Rashid termed the event a landmark initiative of the government. "Earlier, we observed Eid and Bouddha Purnima. This first-ever Durga Puja celebration demonstrates our commitment to an inclusive cultural policy," he said.

Deepak Kumar Goswami expressed pride in being part of the historic occasion. 

"From Buddha Purnima to Eid, and now Durga Puja, we are celebrating all cultures. Our aim is an inclusive Bangladesh where every cultural tradition is equally honored," he said.

Ramesh Dutta described the event as official recognition of Durga Puja and thanked the government for the celebration. 

"After years, we finally see Durga Puja recognized with two public holidays. This is a historic moment for us," he added, expressing hope that such practices will continue in the future.

Gazi Belayet lauded the government initiative for organizing the celebration and providing local performers the opportunity to present Jatra-Pala on a national stage. 

"This is a milestone for Jatra-Pala, and we are deeply grateful to Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy and the government for promoting our art at this level," he said.

Later, a Jatra-Pala titled Mahishasur Mardini, performed by a troupe from Pirojpur, was staged with vibrant public participation.

The Sharadiya Sanskritik Utsab will continue tomorrow at Nandan Mancha of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy with a special cultural evening.