By Dipaneeta Das: In a historic move, the Raj Bhavan, the official residence of the Governor of West Bengal, opened its doors to the public on the eve of Poila Boishakh, the Bengali New Year, ‘in a new and colourful way’. The decision was taken as part of the state government’s efforts to promote cultural exchange and tourism. Poila Boishakh will be celebrated in Bengal on Saturday.
The grand entrance of Raj Bhavan, located in the heart of the city, has been decorated with colorful lights and traditional Bengali motifs. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee may also be present, an officer told PTI.
“Raj Bhavan is all set to open its doors to welcome the common people to its so far enigmatic confines on Poila Boishakh (April 15, 2023) in a new and colorful way,” an official statement by the Bengal governor’s office read.
Visitors will be allowed from 7 am to experience the exquisite experience of Bengali culture and traditions. The day will begin with the West Bengal Governor Dr. C. V. Anand Bose flagging off a colorful Peace Run comprising one thousand NCC cadets. It will be followed by a Bicycle Brigade, which will include 200 cyclists pedalling across the streets.
As a part of the historic tour, visitors will be allowed to witness a Heritage Walk. The walk is organised in collaboration with the Indian Museum. It will be inaugurated at Raj Bhavan on April, 15 at 10.30 am as a part of the Jana Raj Bhavan initiative.
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A representative from each state in India, students from Calcutta University and underprivileged children will participate in the Poila Boishakh Heritage Walk.
To celebrate the auspicious occasion of the Bengali New Year, Raj Bhavan has also organised a recitation of soulful poetry, music, and tradition from 5 pm onwards.
The initiative was widely appreciated by the visitors, who praised the Governor for his efforts to promote cultural exchange and heritage tourism. Many expressed their desire to visit Raj Bhavan again and bring their friends and family.
“This is the first time we will be able to witness such grandeur in celebration of an occasion so important to Bengal’s tradition and cultural heritage,” said Sudip Das, a reveller.
Such initiatives are expected to help bridge the gap between the government and the people and foster a sense of pride in the state’s rich history and culture as the state looks at the eye of two significant elections, namely Panchayet and Lok Sabha (in 2024).
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On Saturday, Dr Bose will also set the stage for defining initiatives by catalyzing the ‘Ananda Dhara’ (the fount of ideas), Jana Raj Bhavan, and Mission Kala Kranti at the Subho Nababarsha celebrations.
This comes after Dr. Bose earlier this week wished the people of West Bengal, wishing that the New Year fulfills all ‘hopes and aspirations’ of everyone.
“Poila Baisakh marks the beginning of the Bengali New Year, a significant day in the lives of the people of Bengal. May this Bengali New Year bring with it peace and prosperity to all people in the State,” he wrote in a message.
