Dhaka, Apr 14 (V7N) — The week-long “Baisakhi Mela 1433,” jointly organized by the Bangladesh Small and Cottage Industries Corporation (BSCIC) and Bangla Academy, began on Tuesday at the Bangla Academy premises in the capital with a festive inauguration.

The fair was officially inaugurated at 12 noon by Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury and Industries Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir. Senior government officials and invited guests were also present at the event.

At the opening ceremony, BSCIC Chairman Md. Saiful Islam extended New Year greetings and said the fair has long been organized to promote small entrepreneurs and showcase locally produced goods.

Speaking as a special guest, Industries Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir said the people of the country are peace-loving and expressed hope that Pohela Boishakh celebrations would continue safely and without fear. He also emphasized that small entrepreneurs play a vital role in the national economy and assured government support for their development.

Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury, speaking as chief guest, said Pohela Boishakh is an integral part of Bengali culture and stressed the importance of expanding such cultural events across the country to strengthen both culture and the economy.

Bangla Academy President Professor Abul Kasem Fazlul Haque highlighted the historical significance of the Bengali language and expressed optimism about the nation’s cultural future.

The fair features a wide range of products including agricultural goods, handicrafts, pottery, Jamdani, Shital Pati, Nakshi Kantha, clothing, folk foods, and traditional toys. Out of 160 stalls, 146 have been allotted to entrepreneurs.

Special attractions include a craft zone, children’s rides, cultural performances, puppet shows, and bioscope displays. Separate stalls have also been arranged for ethnic minority products.

The fair will remain open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM until April 20.

END/SMA/AJ