The Bangladesh High Commission in Ottawa, Canada celebrated Pahela Boishakh and the Bengali New Year-1431 on Sunday, with great enthusiasm and fervour.
A special event, chaired by Bangladesh High Commissioner in Canada Dr Khalilur Rahman, took place at the Bangladesh High Commission auditorium. Other high commission officials and members of the Bangladeshi community living in Canada were present.
Officers of the High Commission read out the messages by the President and Prime Minister on the occasion of Pahela Boishakh and Bengali New Year-1431. This was followed by the welcome address by the high commissioner.
In the welcoming address, Dr Khalilur Rahman said Pahela Boishakh has evolved into a symbol of the non-communal Bengali tradition. He highlighted the significance of UNESCO's recognition of the Pahela Boishakh Mangal Shovajatra as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of mankind in 2016, attributing it to the diplomatic efforts of the Government led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
“Mangal Shovajatra promotes pluralism and secularism, fostering an environment of coexistence regardless of the differences of religions, castes or creeds” He said.
He underscored the festival's role as an antidote against religious extremism and intolerance, promoting unity and tolerance over division. He also noted that Pahela Boishakh revitalises a sense of patriotism and Bengali identity worldwide and energises the Bengali nation.
Following the high commissioner's address, attendees participated in a vibrant Mangal Shovajatra organised by the high commission to celebrate Pahela Boishakh.
The event concluded with a vibrant cultural program featuring spontaneous performances by the Bangladeshi-Canadians. The high commissioner extended a vote of thanks to all attendees, marking the end of the program.
