DHAKA: Pahela Falgun, the first day of spring season, a festival at the advent of spring, is being celebrated amid much enthusiasm and traditional gaiety, in Dhaka and elsewhere throughout the country.

Bangladesh is known for its distinctive six seasons. The most awaited season of all is Boshonto or spring. It begins on first day of Bengali month, Falgun, which is the thirteenth of February in the Gregorian calendar.

Millions of people celebrate the day as colors blend and the essence of love and happiness is recreated in the season. The nature explores with its vast and variety of beauty.

Women wearing traditional dresses as Sari and setting garlands of orange marigold flowers on hair while young men in bright Panjabi, come out on the street to welcome the new season.

Different socio-cultural organizations and government institutions have drawn up elaborate programs like musical functions, colorful marches and street side fairs in the capital as elsewhere across the country to welcome the spring.

Singers, dancers, students and thousands of youths in traditional costume take part in a festival every year known as Pahela Falgun to mark the beginning of the spring season.

Several cultural functions are chalked out in city especially at the Institute of Fine Arts of Dhaka University to celebrate the much awaited festival.

Live music, poetry, dance and rallies at Bakultala of Institute of Fine Arts, Dhaka University will cover several functions remarking the day.

The Ekushey Boi Mela (book fair) is another popular spot for the day, where many pick their choice from the best of Bengali literature.

Authentic and traditional Bangladeshi foods as cakes, sweets and spicy foods are being sold on the street.

On the other hand, additional law enforcers were seen in an alert position in the city to avert any untoward situation and assure the safety and security of the mass.

However, spring or 'Boshonto' characterized by the new blooms and the melodies of home-bound birds, returning to a warmer climate.

'Boshonto' provides a respite from the colorless monotony of winter and from the harsher, longer days of heat and humidity that await us.

Moreover, everyone hopes that the new touch of the weather and environment will bring a peace to the people of the country amid the ongoing political unrest and blockade sponsored by BNP-led 20-party alliance.

BDST: 0546 HRS, FEB 13, 2015