Photo: BSS

JAHANGIRNAGAR UNIVERSITY, Apr 14, 2026 (BSS) - Pahela Baishakh, the first day of Bengali New Year, was celebrated today at Jahangirnagar University (JU) with the theme “Harmony of the New Year, Rise of Democracy”. 

On the occasion of Bangla New Year 1433, Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Mohammed Kamrul Ahsan exchanged New Year greetings with teachers, students, officers and employees at his residence in the morning. Traditional Bangla songs, including “Esho He Boishakh”, were played while guests were served with local delicacies such as jilapi, sandesh, kadma, watermelon, mango juice, batasha, muri and khai. 

After the exchange of greetings, the Vice-Chancellor inaugurated the daylong celebrations at the Old Arts and Humanities Faculty premises and formally flagged off the Baishakhi procession around 9:45 am.  

The procession marched across the campus and concluded at Selim Al-Deen Muktamanch. 

Speaking at the inauguration, the Vice-Chancellor said JU is widely known as a cultural hub and this year’s arrangement was more diverse compared to the previous  years.  

He said, “The university aims not only to prepare students for professional life but also to develop them into morally enlightened individuals.” 

Referring to the spirit of Chaitra Sankranti, he said the community seeks to leave behind the sorrows of the past year and move forward by embracing positivity. 

He called upon all with a pledge to respect differing views and contribute to building a humane, value-based society. 

Among others, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Academic) Professor Dr Mohammad Mahfuzur Rahman, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Administration) Professor Dr Sohel Ahmed, deans of various faculties, acting registrar, proctor, hall provosts, JUCSU Vice-President Abdur Rashid Zitu, along with teachers, students, officials and staff members, participated in the procession. 

Following the procession, the Vice-Chancellor inaugurated a fair at the TSC premises and attended New Year programmes organised by the Departments of Bangla, Philosophy, English, Government and Politics, and Geography and Environment. 

In the afternoon, a cultural programme was held at Selim Al-Deen Muktamanch, jointly organised by the Teachers-Students Centre (TSC), Students’ Counselling and Guidance Centre, and JUCSU, marking the festive spirit of the Bangla New Year.