Vibrant Pahela Baishakh festivities in Washington DC
Pahela Baishakh was celebrated at the Bangladesh Embassy in Washington DC on April 18 amid much enthusiasm and fanfare, says a press release.
Bangladesh Ambassador to the USA Mohammad Ziauddin welcomed the New Year saying that it symbolised hope, prosperity and goodwill, celebrated by all irrespective of religion and ethnicity.
The day's celebration began with Mongol Shubhajatra, which the UNESCO included in the list of “Intangible Cultural Heritage” in November 2016. Members of the Embassy families welcomed the New Year by rendering chorally, “Esho he Baishakh, Esho Esho” at the packed Bangabandhu Auditorium of the chancery.
Artistes of Bangladesh in Washington presented folk, modern and mystic songs and dances. Singer Selim Chowdhury rendered folk songs at the event, and artistes from Sri Lanka, Nepal and Myanmar joined the Bangalee festivities by performing dances on stage.
The event was graced by senior Bangladeshi officials and leading members of the community present in DC, as well as a good number of foreigners, diplomats, businessmen, and members of the press.