Dazzling Drones and Dhaka Beats: Pohela Boishakh Celebration Lights Up Manik Mia Avenue
On the occasion of Pohela Boishakh 1432, residents of Dhaka were treated to an evening of immersive tech-driven entertainment at Manik Mia Avenue. Organized by the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, with execution by the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, and technical assistance from the Chinese Embassy in Dhaka, the “Drone Show” and “New Year Concert” were presented in collaboration with the Bangladesh National Parliament and Dhaka North City Corporation.
The festivities began on Monday afternoon at 3 PM with a vibrant concert, though it was the highly anticipated drone show that captured the imagination of the youth. The spectacle commenced at 7 PM, following a colorful laser show. Snippets from the rehearsal, held on Saturday in front of the National Parliament Building, went viral on social media, building excitement for the main event.
Cultural Affairs Advisor Mostofa Sarwar Farooki shared glimpses from the rehearsal on his verified Facebook page on Sunday at 10:18 PM. He wrote, “A few glimpses from today’s drone show! This is just a peek into the full spectacle. On April 14, at 3 PM, you are invited to witness an extraordinary exhibition of drone show and live music at Manik Mia Avenue.” He further added, “This drone show is a gift from the Chinese Embassy.”
During the rehearsal, audiences were mesmerized by vivid aerial illustrations created by drones and colorful laser beams lighting up the sky for the first time. The show depicted a timeline from 1971 to 2024, featuring portraits and scenes that highlighted “the heroes of 2024,” the theme of “breaking the cage,” a prayer for Palestine, and messages of goodwill between Bangladesh and China.
Symbolic tributes included protester Abu Saeed standing tall with pride, a gesture of awe with a water bottle held high, and solidarity with the Palestinian cause. Additionally, references were made to the July Movement and recent public demonstrations demanding the resignation of Sheikh Hasina—reflected through symbolic visuals. Organizers emphasized that the drone show was not merely for entertainment but intended to carry critical messages relevant to contemporary times.
Prior to the drone show, musical performances enlivened the stage. These included a presentation by the “Basic Guitar Learning School” from Bandarban, songs by the Garo community band “F Minor,” and a group rendition of “Esho He Boishakh.” Solo performances were delivered by Mithun Chakro and Islamuddin Palakar, the latter presenting traditional folk ballads including “Deora.” Duets and solos were also performed by Rakib and Sagor Dewan, as well as Rakib and Ustad Arj Ali.
Atia Anisha presented three solos, including “Cholo Niralay,” while Ahmed Hasan Sunny performed “Majhe Majhe Tumi Ele,” “Manush Keno E Rokom,” and “Golpo Na.” The band Ashes closed the evening with a dynamic performance, and singer Parsha offered three powerful songs, including one inspired by the July Movement.
The night offered a unique fusion of culture, music, and technology—ushering in the Bangla New Year with a message both celebratory and thought-provoking.
