Dhaka, April 14 -- BNP Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed on Monday described the Pahela Baishakh festivities, including the traditional Baishakhi procession, as an integral part of Bangladesh's cultural heritage and identity.

"This Baishakhi procession, this Anondo Shobhajatra any the joyful celebrations of Baishakh are not mere rituals, but part of our cultural heritage. The Baishakhi fairs, the palm-leaf fans, and bamboo flutes are all elements of our unique tradition," he said.

The BNP leader made the remarks while speaking at a New Year celebration programme organised by the Jatiyatabadi Samajik Sangskritik Sangstha (JASAS) at Shatayu Prangon (Rani Mancha) in Ramna Park.

He also he extended Bengali New Year greetings with ...