The eleven-day 'Shaheed Zia 2nd Book Fair' was inaugurated at the Sylhet Central Shaheed Minar premises on Sunday afternoon. The event was organized by Komol Sahitya Parishad Sylhet, and the inauguration was conducted by Sylhet City Corporation Administrator Abdul Kaiyum Chowdhury. In his speech, he emphasized the importance of presenting the life, leadership, and patriotism of Ziaur Rahman to the younger generation. He also noted that cultural events like book fairs play a vital role in fostering reading habits and promoting patriotism among youth.

The opening ceremony was presided over by Sajon Ahmad Saju, president of Komol Sahitya Parishad Sylhet, and conducted by acting general secretary Majharul Islam Menon. Special guests included recitation artist Saleh Ahmad Khosru, former general secretary of Kendrio Muslim Sahitya Sangsad Dewan Mahmud Raja Chowdhury, Sylhet Metropolitan BNP library secretary Advocate Abdul Mukit Opi, and Sylhet District JASAS member secretary Raihan Hossain Khan. Political, social, and cultural leaders, poets, writers, and journalists were also present.

The fair will run daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. between April 5 and April 15, featuring participation from various publishing houses across the country, including Dhaka.

Bangladesh’s Minister of Cultural Affairs Nitai Roy Chowdhury announced that the traditional Mongol Shobhajatra, organized annually by the Faculty of Fine Arts at Dhaka University to celebrate Pahela Baishakh, will now be known as ‘Boishakhi Shobhajatra’. The decision was revealed on Sunday during a press conference on the upcoming Bengali New Year and related festivities of ethnic communities including Chakma, Marma, Tripura, and Garo. The minister said the government reached this decision to resolve long-standing debates over the procession’s name.

He explained that Pahela Baishakh represents joy and well-being, rooted in Bangladesh’s agrarian heritage. The new name aims to preserve cultural unity while avoiding confusion and division. The procession will continue to feature diverse regional traditions, folk art, and music. Chowdhury also assured that UNESCO’s recognition of the event would remain unaffected, as the government will simply notify the organization of the name change.

The minister added that daylong cultural programs will be held at Ramna Batamul and other venues, with maximum security measures in place. He urged citizens to celebrate responsibly and uphold national unity through cultural diversity.

Bangladesh’s Cultural Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury announced that the parade celebrating the Bengali New Year will henceforth be known as 'Boishakhi Shovajatra'. He made the announcement on Saturday, April 4, in Mohammadpur, Magura district, during the foundation stone laying ceremony of a modern district rest house.

The minister explained that there is no difference between the previously used names 'Mangal Shovajatra' and 'Ananda Shovajatra', but the celebration will now officially take place under the new title. He emphasized that the Bengali New Year is a long-standing cultural heritage of the Bengali people, belonging to no political party, and enjoyed by everyone from farmers to ordinary citizens. He also stated that the government will continue to serve all citizens, including those who did not vote.

The event was chaired by District Council Administrator Alia Ahmed and attended by Magura-1 Member of Parliament Monowar Hossain Khan, District Commissioner Abdullah Al Mahmud, and Superintendent of Police Molla Azad. The minister inaugurated the foundation stone with prayers and blessings.

Bangladesh Udichi Shilpigoshthi, a long-standing cultural organization known for its progressive stance, is facing a severe internal crisis following a controversial caricature of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina displayed on March 25 during Genocide Day events near the Central Shaheed Minar. The artwork, portraying Hasina in a demonic form, sparked outrage among pro-Hasina leftists, journalists, and activists, who accused the organizers of engaging in anti-state activities. The dispute has deepened existing divisions within Udichi, which now operates under two rival committees.

Founded in 1968 by Satyen Sen and Ronesh Dasgupta, Udichi has often been accused of promoting Indian cultural influence and Islamophobia under the banner of progressivism. Critics claim the group failed to resist state repression during Hasina’s rule and alienated the majority by undermining religious values. The organization’s leadership remains split between factions led by Mahmud Selim–Amit Ranjan Dey and Habibul Alam–Jamshed Anwar Tapon, each accusing the other of deviation from Udichi’s original ideals.

Analysts cited in the report suggest that Udichi’s fragmentation reflects the decline of India-aligned cultural politics in Bangladesh, as public sentiment shifts against imported ideological narratives.

British-Bangladeshi community leader, writer, and professional accountant Abu Taher is set to receive the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) honor from King Charles III for his outstanding contributions to social service and charitable work. The official ceremony will take place on May 13 at Windsor Castle, where the King will formally confer the honor. His name has already been announced as an MBE recipient.

Based in London, Abu Taher has been recognized for over three decades of voluntary service, cultural leadership, and humanitarian initiatives that have positively impacted both the British and Bangladeshi communities. Originally from Chandarpur village in Golapganj, Sylhet, he has also made significant contributions to literature, writing poems, essays, and plays that reflect themes of diaspora life, humanity, and cultural identity.

Taher continues to inspire new generations of British-Bangladeshi writers, particularly encouraging young people to engage with the Bengali language and literature, strengthening cultural ties across communities.

Internationally renowned photographer and rights activist Dr. Shahidul Alam paid a courtesy visit to Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. A. B. M. Obaidul Islam on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. The meeting took place at the Vice-Chancellor’s office and focused on enhancing education in photography, film, and multimedia, as well as strengthening international cooperation in these fields.

During the discussion, participants explored the possibility of expanding joint educational and research programs between Dhaka University and Pathshala South Asian Media Institute, a leading photography school in South Asia. Pathshala Principal Professor Kh. M. Harun was also present. The meeting emphasized the modernization of media, photography, film, and multimedia education in Bangladesh and the importance of global academic collaboration. Plans for organizing international seminars, symposiums, and conferences were also discussed.

The Vice-Chancellor acknowledged Pathshala’s significant role in developing photography and visual media education in Bangladesh and assured full institutional support for the advancement of its academic programs under Dhaka University’s affiliation.

Dhaka University has confirmed that the Bangla New Year 1433 celebrations will again be held under the name 'Ananda Shobhajatra', maintaining the change introduced last year from the traditional 'Mangal Shobhajatra'. The decision was reaffirmed at a preparatory meeting held on March 31, 2026, at the Nabab Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Building, chaired by Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. A. B. M. Obaidul Islam. The procession will begin at 9 a.m. from the Faculty of Fine Arts and follow its usual route through Raju Sculpture, Doel Chattar, and Bangla Academy before returning to the faculty.

The theme for this year’s celebration is 'Harmony of the New Year, Revival of Democracy'. To ensure safety and order, the university has issued several guidelines, including bans on wearing masks and carrying bags on campus, restrictions on vuvuzela use, and a requirement to conclude all events by 5 p.m. Vehicle access will be limited, with motorcycles completely prohibited.

A central coordination committee has been formed to oversee the arrangements, and the police have been requested to install CCTV cameras and archways for security. Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury described the debate over the procession’s name as unnecessary, noting that the government has no objection to the current title.

Preparations for celebrating Pahela Baishakh and Bengali New Year 1433 began on Monday at the Faculty of Fine Arts of Dhaka University. The event was inaugurated by Professor Dr. Saima Haque Bidisha, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Administration) of the university, who attended as the chief guest. The opening ceremony was presided over by Professor Dr. Md. Azharul Islam Sheikh, Dean of the Faculty, with Ekushey Padak-winning artist Professor Dr. Abdus Sattar speaking as the special guest. Faculty members, students, cultural figures, and artists were also present.

Professor Dr. Saima Haque Bidisha thanked the teachers, students, and alumni for their efforts in organizing the celebration. She stated that several committees have already started preliminary activities to ensure a peaceful, disciplined, and festive environment for the New Year celebration. The Dhaka University administration is working to make the event successful and has called for full cooperation from all involved.

The preparations mark the beginning of the university’s traditional cultural festivities ahead of Pahela Baishakh, reflecting its commitment to maintaining a vibrant and inclusive celebration.

The article recounts the extraordinary role of Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College and Hospital during Bangladesh’s 1971 Liberation War. Despite limited resources and constant danger, doctors, students, and health workers continued treating the wounded. Led by Professor Dr. Shamsuddin Ahmed, the hospital became a refuge for victims of violence. Dr. Ahmed organized an emergency blood bank and medical squad before the conflict intensified, saving countless lives. On April 9, 1971, Pakistani forces surrounded the hospital and executed Dr. Ahmed and several colleagues, marking one of the war’s most tragic massacres.

The institution’s contribution extended beyond martyrdom. Many students joined the medical corps in India, serving in refugee camps and field hospitals, while others fought directly in Sectors 4 and 5. Staff secretly supplied medicines and surgical tools to freedom fighters, risking their lives under curfew. The hospital grounds later became a memorial site honoring those who died.

The article concludes that these sacrifices remain underrecognized nationally. It calls for proper acknowledgment of the doctors, students, and staff whose courage embodied humanity and moral strength during the war.

The historic Nidaria Mosque in Lalmonirhat, built in Mughal architectural style nearly three centuries ago, is now at risk due to neglect and structural decay. Despite being listed by the Department of Archaeology, the three-domed mosque has weakened over time without proper restoration. Locals warn that without urgent renovation and recovery of encroached land, this northern heritage site could be lost.

According to local accounts, the mosque was built in 1176 Hijri by Subedar Monsur Khan in fulfillment of a vow. The single-room structure, measuring about 42 feet by 16 feet, features three domes, four corner pillars, and a single entrance. It stands in Kishamat Nagarband Mouza of Panchagram Union, with an adjacent Eidgah, graveyard, and a madrasa established in 2019. Although about 10 acres of land were donated to the mosque, part of it is now under dispute.

Local residents and the district administration have called for immediate action to restore the mosque and resolve the land issues. Officials said necessary measures will be taken soon to preserve the site, which locals believe could become a major heritage tourism destination if properly maintained.

A new organization named 'Osman Hadi Smriti Mancha' was inaugurated on Saturday at 4 p.m. at the central Shaheed Minar in Nalchity, Jhalakathi, marking the 100th day since the martyrdom of Shahid Osman Hadi. The inauguration was conducted by his sister, Masuma Hadi. The group aims to preserve Bengali culture, continue the struggle against foreign dominance, and demand justice for Hadi’s killing.

Osman Hadi, spokesperson of the Inquilab Mancha, was known for his activism against Indian dominance. The event was attended by Masuma Hadi’s husband Amir Hossain, Sultan Talukdar, father of martyr Selim Talukdar, and other local residents. Speakers included Touhid Alam Manna, Sultan Talukdar, Sujon Khan, and Shahadat Fakir.

In her keynote, Masuma Hadi said the platform would spread Osman Hadi’s ideals and voice for freedom across the country. She criticized the lack of justice and demanded that the killers be brought back from India for maximum punishment. The program concluded with Quran recitation, Islamic songs, and prayers.

The Bangladesh High Commission in Ottawa celebrated the 2026 Independence and National Day of Bangladesh on March 26 with due dignity and festivity. The event, held on Saturday, featured a diplomatic reception attended by Canadian parliamentarians, senior officials, diplomats from various countries, and members of the Bangladeshi diaspora. Parliamentary Secretary to the Canadian Foreign Minister Robert Oliphant attended as the chief guest.

High Commissioner Md. Jashim Uddin paid tribute to the martyrs, freedom fighters, and victims of the 1971 Liberation War, emphasizing that independence is a continuous responsibility. He noted Bangladesh’s efforts over the past 55 years to strengthen democratic institutions and achieve sustainable economic growth. Chief guest Robert Oliphant praised Bangladesh’s growing economic stability, contributions to global peacekeeping, and progress in social and economic indicators.

The celebration included a ceremonial cake-cutting and a cultural performance titled “Bangladesh: Baro Mashe Tero Parbon,” showcasing the country’s seasonal and cultural heritage. Earlier in the day, the national flag was hoisted at the Bangladesh House, followed by a special prayer for the martyrs of the Liberation War.

Dhaka residents witnessed a vibrant three-day Eid-ul-Fitr festival that brought traditional celebrations back to public spaces. The citizen-led event began on March 20 with a symbolic royal procession through city streets, followed by a mehendi festival and cultural evening at Rabindra Sarobar. The festivities continued with a colorful Eid parade on Eid morning and concluded on March 22 with a kite festival at Suhrawardy Udyan.

Organizers said the initiative aimed to revive Bangladesh’s lost Eid traditions and reconnect urban life with its cultural roots. The parade featured decorated elephants, horses, musicians, and performers, while participants chanted festive and social slogans. Citizens expressed joy at rediscovering communal celebrations once confined to Old Dhaka. Organizers, including writers and activists, emphasized that such events reclaim cultural sovereignty and promote unity beyond political divides.

Encouraged by the strong public response, organizers plan to expand the festival in future years, aiming to make it an annual platform for inclusive celebration and cultural revival across Bangladesh.

Bandarban, a southeastern district of Bangladesh, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural diversity. The region’s towering hills, mist-covered peaks, and vibrant ethnic communities create a living canvas of nature and tradition. Eleven indigenous groups, including the Marma, Mro, and Tanchangya, inhabit the area, practicing traditional jhum cultivation and preserving their distinct crafts and cuisines that attract visitors seeking authentic experiences.

The district’s name, Bandarban, originates from a local legend involving monkeys forming a chain to cross a stream, giving rise to its meaning, “dam of monkeys.” Historically, the area was under the Bomang Circle, established under the 1900 Chittagong Hill Tracts Regulation, and became a full-fledged district in 1984. The century-old Bomang royal palace and the annual Raj Punnyah festival remain symbols of its enduring heritage.

Home to Bangladesh’s highest peaks, Tajindong and Keokradong, and scenic waterfalls like Nafakhum and Amiakhum, Bandarban is also rich in forest resources and agricultural produce. Its serene landscapes, spiritual sites, and communal harmony make it a distinctive meeting point of nature and culture.

Tamirul Millat Kamil Madrasa in Dhaka observed the Independence and National Day on Thursday with a series of events. The day began with the hoisting of the national flag after the Fajr prayer, followed by Quran recitation, Hamd-Naat performances, essay competitions, a discussion meeting, and a prayer session involving students and teachers.

The discussion and prayer session, held at the madrasa auditorium, was conducted by Assistant Professor Abdus Samad Azad from the English Department. Acting Principal Dr. Muhammad Khalilur Rahman Madani attended as the chief guest. He prayed for the martyrs of the Liberation War and emphasized the importance of ensuring national security, education, healthcare, and housing for all, along with strengthening the education sector.

Dr. Madani urged students to become patriotic, responsible citizens, writers, and researchers to build a just and prosperous nation. Prizes were distributed among competition winners, and the event concluded with prayers for the welfare and prosperity of the country.