Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen visited mango orchards in Nachole, Chapainawabganj, and expressed keen interest in importing Bangladesh’s premium mangoes. Impressed by the agricultural practices, he stated China aims to import up to 120,000 metric tons of mangoes this year, praising the fruit’s taste and quality.

Commenting on the recent lawsuit against actor Iresh Zaker, cultural adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki said he personally knows Iresh Zaker and confirmed his support for the July Movement. He clarified that the case against Zaker was filed by an individual, not the state. Farooki stated that while freedom must be respected, its misuse must also be addressed and expressed faith in a fair police investigation. He also mentioned that despite the cultural ministry’s efforts, it has received little media coverage, citing the recent recovery of library books in Tangail as an example.

Home and Agriculture Advisor Jahangir Alam Chowdhury and Industry and Housing Advisor Adilur Rahman visited farmers engaged in paddy harvesting and threshing in Arial Beel, Munshiganj. They participated in harvesting activities and pledged to stop illegal soil excavation in the beel area. They also announced plans to dredge local canals and build two cold storage facilities for preserving vegetables, emphasizing that curbing corruption would accelerate national development.

Food and Land Adviser Ali Imam Majumder said the government will monitor rice markets to prevent syndicates from exploiting farmers. “Farmers must receive fair prices,” he stated, adding that previous harvest seasons were free of syndicate interference. “We aim to ensure a smooth system again this season.”

The Rakhine community in Cox’s Bazar has kicked off their traditional three-day water festival to mark the start of the new year 1387, as per their calendar. Young men and women, dressed in cultural attire, joyfully splash water on each other, symbolizing the washing away of sorrow and the welcoming of prosperity. Decorated bamboo drums, colorful pavilions, and festive cheer fill the air in this vibrant celebration rooted in tradition and unity.

Dr. Jalal Uddin, the provost of Khaleda Zia Hall at Islamic University, has come under fire for halting lunch for residential students who did not participate in the Boishakhi rally on Wednesday. A special traditional meal of panta bhaat was arranged at noon to celebrate the Bengali New Year. However, only seven students from the hall joined the morning rally. Angered by the low turnout, the provost canceled the meal and also withheld regular lunch service in the dorm’s dining hall. This left many students in distress and sparked protests. Frustrated residents gathered in front of the provost’s office, chanting slogans and demanding accountability.

Young members of the Marma community celebrated the Sangrai Water Festival in Bandarban’s Kuhalong Union with vibrant splashes and cultural performances. Tradition holds that this joyful water-play fosters romantic connections that often lead to marriage. Regional Council member KS Mong inaugurated the event by the Sangu River, featuring traditional dances, boat races, and greasy bamboo climbing contests. Across the hill tracts, communities also observed religious rituals and held traditional cake-making competitions throughout the night.

The formal celebrations of Bengali New Year 1432 concluded with a dramatic protest in Uttara at 12:30 AM on Monday night. Demonstrators threw shoes and set fire to a portrait representing authoritarianism, chanting slogans such as “Hit Hasina’s cheeks with shoes, in rhythm!”—signaling defiance against the current regime.

Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Niaz Ahmed Khan extended Bengali New Year greetings to the nation and remarked that despite various obstacles and attempts to create disruption, the celebration was a success thanks to united efforts. He praised the team for organizing such a major event within just 8 days. Highlighting the goals behind the UN’s international recognition of the celebration, he emphasized showcasing Bangladesh’s diverse ethnic and cultural identity. “This year’s procession was the most vibrant and diverse ever,” he added, urging people not to lose the promise ignited by the mass uprising of 2024.

Jahangirnagar University celebrated Bengali New Year 1432 under the theme, “Harmony of the New Year, End of Fascism, and Triumph of Humanity.” The rally began at 9:45 AM from the Old Arts Faculty premises and concluded at the base of the Amar Ekushey monument. Led by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Md. Kamrul Ahsan and organized by the Fine Arts Department, the celebration emphasized the universal appeal of the New Year. “This festival is an inseparable part of Bengali identity and should be a pledge to establish an inclusive, egalitarian society,” the VC said.

Jessore district administration honored sculptor Mahbub Jamal Shamim, pioneer of the Pohela Boishakh processions, on Monday morning. The event took place at the Jessore Collectorate premises, where Deputy Commissioner Md. Azaharul Islam presented Shamim with a crest and a check. “This honor is not mine alone—it belongs to all cultural activists, social and political figures, and the entire nation,” Shamim said. The tradition that began in Jessore is now celebrated with grandeur by Bengalis in India and around the world. A colorful procession followed the ceremony, wishing prosperity for all.

Cultural Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki claimed that the Mongol Shobhajatra had previously been exploited by certain political groups for their own benefit. This year, he said, the procession returned to its roots—a celebration by and for the people, free of political interference.

Press Secretary Shafiqur Alam declared that the nation has already rid itself of many negative elements, and whatever remains will soon disappear. Speaking during the New Year festivities, he emphasized that the festival has turned into a joyful national gathering. “This celebration is for everyone—plains or hills, all ethnic groups,” he said, also noting the continued progress of the country.

With the theme “Harmony of the New Year, End of Fascism,” this year’s Mongol Shobhajatra concluded back at the Faculty of Fine Arts after traversing Shahbagh, TSC, Central Shaheed Minar, Doel Chattar, and Bangla Academy. Starting at 9 AM, thousands from all walks of life joined the jubilant procession, celebrating the Bengali spirit with vibrant art and cultural performances.

Participants in this year’s Mongol Shobhajatra expressed strong solidarity with Palestine. Many carried Palestinian flags and placards reading “Free Palestine.” A giant watermelon sculpture, symbolizing resistance and resilience, was also featured. Organizers explained that the colors of the watermelon reflect those of the Palestinian flag, making it a powerful cultural symbol of their ongoing struggle.