Dhaka, April 14 -- The vibrant New Year festival of the Marma and Mro communities - "Sangrai Powe" and "Chakran Powe" - has begun in Bandarban with colourful processions and the veneration of the elders.

On Sunday morning, Bandarban Deputy Commissioner Shamim Ara Rimi officially inaugurated the festival by releasing doves at the traditional Bomang King's ground.

People of all ages in traditional attire and carrying colourful banners, placards, masks, and motifs, participated in the parade. The streets of Bandarban came alive with dance, music, and joyous celebrations. The procession moved through the main streets of the town and concluded at the Indigenous Cultural Institute.

Traditional musical instruments of the Marma community, such...