Ushering in Noboborsho online

Cultural activists of Barishal city have arranged a Mangal Shobhajatra that fits the time. Adapting with the ongoing shutdown all over the country, the activists are taking the age-old tradition online this year.

"Thousands of people come together to celebrate the festival typically," said Roni Das, an organiser of the initiative, "But this year, it isn't possible to celebrate Bangla new year in the usual fashion, as it would put people under risk of infection."

"So we decided to celebrate in our own homes. Photos and videos will be uploaded on social media and that is how we will bring people together online to celebrate," he added.

Farjana Priya, another cultural activist, said she will come on Facebook live to recite poetry at 8am today.

People are also involving their children in this unique celebration, as the colourful festival is a favourite among little ones.

Prapti, a second-grader, said, "I'm sad that we can't go out to celebrate but I am making paper crafts to

decorate the house and celebrate indoors."

Das Gupta Asis Kumar, advisor at Teachers' Association of Barishal

region said, "We are taking the celebration online through our page 'Charukala Barishal Official' on Facebook."