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The traditional Baishakhi Shobhajatra was held today at Chittagong University (CU) with vibrant festivities, drumbeats and the display of three symbolic motifs.
The procession began at 10:40 am from Smaran Chattar (Zero Point) on the campus and concluded at Jarul Tala. This year's theme of the celebration was "Eso Praner Utshobe, Jago Nobo Anonde".
Earlier at around 10:30 am, CU Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Mohammad Al-Forkan inaugurated the Bengali New Year celebrations by releasing balloons.
The procession featured three main motifs-a bird, a horse and a fish-crafted from bamboo, cane and paper. Organisers said biodegradable materials such as bamboo, cane, wood, paper and natural colours were used in making the structures.
Khandakar Mashrur Al Fahim, a student of the Institute of Fine Arts and vice-president of the hostel students' union, said the motifs carried symbolic meanings. The bird represented peace, the horse symbolised courage and bravery, while the fish reflected the traditional Bengali culture of 'Fish and Rice'.
Before the procession, the Vice-Chancellor extended greetings for Bengali New Year 1433, expressing hope for the promotion of Bengali culture in a democratic Bangladesh. He also reiterated aspirations to develop a science-based and research-oriented university.
Pro-VC (Academic) Prof Dr Mohammad Shamim Uddin Khan, Pro-VC (Administration) Prof Dr Md Kamal Uddin, BGC Trust University VC Prof Dr Md Manzurul Kibria and Dean of the Faculty of Science Prof Dr Mohammad Al Amin were present, among others.
Provosts of different halls, faculty members, students and employees of the university attended the programme.
Tight security measures were in place across the campus and surrounding areas during the celebrations. Around 50 police personnel, 40 cadets of Bangladesh National Cadet Corps and 10 Rover Scouts were deployed to maintain law and order.
