BAISHAKHI SPIRITS: A woman delicately paints motifs on a young girl’s cheek on the eve of Pahela Baishakh. This traditional art form embodies the spirit of the celebration, intertwining cultural heritage with a national festival. The photo was taken yesterday at Dhaka University’s Faculty of Fine Arts.

A dilapidated footbridge on Kazi Nazrul Islam Avenue near Paribagh in the capital. It has remained unusable for pedestrians for months. Photo: Rashed Shumon

A father carries in his arms the body of his three‑year‑old daughter, who just died from a suspected case of measles, as the child’s mother and uncle are seen inconsolable in the background. The measles situation in the country continues to deteriorate, with both confirmed and suspected cases climbing steadily. The photo was taken outside the DNCC Dedicated Covid‑19 Hospital in Mohakhali yesterday afternoon. Photo: Mehedi Hasan

Large papier-mâché sculptures, crafted over the past few days, sit ready at the Faculty of Fine Arts of Dhaka University ahead of the Baishakhi Shobhajatra (formerly known as the Mongol Shobhajatra), to be held this morning, on the occasion of Pahela Baishakh. With the Bangla New Year set to begin with the rising sun, the faculty is abuzz with last-minute preparations as fine arts students put finishing touches on the motifs that will lead the Baishakh procession. The photo was taken yesterday. Photo: Rashed Shumon