Baishakh festivities at Bengal Boi

Bengal Boi, the literary initiative of Bengal Foundation located in the capital's Lalmatia, has become somewhat of a cultural hotspot within a short span of time. Now, with the Bangla Year 1425 knocking at the door, Bengal Foundation has announced a series of musical and other performances at the venue to usher in the occasion.

The four-day programmes, collectively titled “Poran Bhori Dao”, will begin at 7pm on April 12, and begin with a group sarod performance by the talented young students of Bengal Parampara Sangeetalay, who have consistently impressed large audiences through their performances at the Bengal Classical Music Festival in recent years. The set will be followed by poetry recitation from reputed elocutionist Hasan Arif, and songs of Pancha-kobi by Sharmin Sathi Islam.

The second day's programme, also beginning at 7pm, will feature a concert by Joler Gaan. The band, which has retained a massive fan following among people of all ages and classes despite lineup changes, will entertain those present at the venue with their unique brand of music and theatrical performance. The concert will also mark Chaitra Sangkranti (the last day of the Bangla calendar).

The third day, which is Pahela Baishakh or the New Year day itself, will have songs and flute performance of Pothik Baul from morning to evening.

The final day's programme, on April 15, will again begin at 7pm, and feature folk songs by two dedicated practitioners of the art form – Halima Parveen and Bhajan Baul.

All four days of the festival are free and open for all.