Bangladeshis in Brunei celebrated Pahela Baishakh, the first day of Bangla year, with joy and fanfare, says a press release. To mark the biggest cultural festival of the Bangalees, the Bangladesh High Commission organised a Baishakhi fair at the Chancery premises at Sungai Akar. Around a dozen stalls were installed, where Bangladesh community members showcased Bangladeshi pitha (traditional home made cakes) of various types.
A festive spirit gripped the High Commission premises decorated with colourful balloons and festoons. Women in soothing white sarees with red borders and men in panjabees --- the dresses adorned with Baishakhi motifs, greeted the New Year.
Momtaz Ahsan, wife of the High Commissioner of Bangladesh M. Shameem Ahsan, inaugurated the fair in the morning. In his brief speech, the High Commissioner highlighted the significance of Bangla New Year and its impact on the life of Bangladeshi nationals living abroad. He thanked everyone for supporting the initiative of the High Commission and for taking part in this year's festivities.
The members of the Bangladesh community expressed their determination to move forward with a vision to build a prosperous future through this year's carnival of Pahela Baishakh.