Rishij Group Welcomes New Year with Esho Hey Boishakh Performance

A+ A A-

Dhaka, Bangladesh – Rishiz Shilpi Goshthi ushered in the Bengali New Year, Pohela Boishakh, on Tuesday morning with a vibrant cultural celebration in front of Shishupark, marking its 43rd annual event. The festivities, dedicated to the organization’s late founder, renowned folk singer Fakir Alamgir, commenced at 7:30 AM with the timeless song “Esho Hey Boishakh.”

Under the direction of musician Samar Barua, Rishiz artists launched the program with the iconic new year anthem. The ensemble then performed other traditional songs, including “Aj-o Achhe Ektara Ar Nakshikanthar Math” and “Baje Ki Madhur Sure Baje Bangladeshi Banshi,” enchanting the growing crowd.

Renowned musician Rafiqul Alam officially inaugurated the morning’s proceedings, with fellow artist Khurshid Alam joining as a special guest. The celebration, which is the 43rd such event organized by Rishiz, has become a cherished part of Dhaka’s Pohela Boishakh traditions, running until noon.

Rishiz Shilpi Goshthi was founded by the esteemed folk singer Fakir Alamgir. Since 1983, the organization has consistently hosted Pohela Boishakh celebrations, initially at Shahbagh’s Narkel Bithi Chattar before relocating to its current venue in front of Shishupark in 2021.

Six Bangladeshis killed in South Africa supermarket fire

Read More

Spectators began gathering as early as 7:00 AM, eager to partake in the festivities. Among them were sisters Wasfia Faruk, 11, and Jannatul Ferdous, 10, whose cheeks were adorned with “Shubho Noboborsho” designs. They expressed their excitement, sharing that they had shopped for the occasion a week in advance and had also enjoyed music at Ramna earlier in the morning.

Afzan Begum, dressed in traditional Boishakhi attire, noted her long-standing connection to the event. “I have been coming to Rishiz’s New Year celebration since 1992,” she said. “I am a fan of Fakir Alamgir. He is no longer with us, but his songs endure. I never miss this event and came early today. The organization’s efforts are commendable.”

This year’s Pohela Boishakh celebration was dedicated posthumously to Rishiz Shilpi Goshthi’s founder, Fakir Alamgir, honoring his immense contribution to Bengali culture. Suraiya Alamgir, President of Rishiz Shilpi Goshthi, presided over the day’s events, carrying forward the organization’s legacy.