The Bangladeshi Artist Development Agency (BADA) made an unforgettable debut with its first-ever Pohela Boishakh celebration, drawing hundreds of people to the grounds of Soho House Museum in Birmingham on Sunday 13th April. From midday until late afternoon, the area came alive with music, movement, and vibrant displays of Bangladeshi culture in a joyful tribute to the Bengali New Year.
The event, which was free to attend, delivered on its promise of being a dynamic cultural experience for all ages. Attendees were treated to a vibrant lineup that included live performances by members of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO), traditional Bengali singers and dancers, interactive arts workshops, bustling market stalls, and an uplifting street procession that brought the spirit of Dhaka to Soho Road.
A Community Celebration with a Powerful Message
This year’s theme, women’s freedom, resonated throughout the event — from intricately crafted tiger and owl masks to symbolic flying birds and traditional Pansi boats, all handmade by local volunteers and artists. The procession itself was a colourful, movement, drawing cheers from local businesses and crowds, bringing together people of all backgrounds to celebrate resilience, creativity, and heritage.
A highlight of the day was the art exhibition, featuring works by 20 local and Bangladeshi artists, showcasing a rich tapestry of styles, mediums, and cultural stories. Alongside the visual art, nearly 20 performers took to the stage in a spectacular folk music and dance programme, blending contemporary artistry with time-honoured traditions.
A New Chapter for Bangladeshi Arts in the UK
The success of the event marks a milestone not just for BADA, but for Birmingham's cultural landscape. Since its launch in November 2023, BADA has been committed to establishing the West Midlands as a hub for Bangladeshi arts and development. This event proved that the vision is already taking root — engaging new audiences, nurturing local talent, and spotlighting the richness of Bangladeshi heritage.
The atmosphere throughout the day was filled with warmth and wonder, with many attendees expressing excitement about future events. (Bangla Month is currently in the works so watch this space!) Children painted masks during our Boishaki workshops, families danced along to the music, and elders shared stories — all framed by the celebratory sights and smells of traditional Bangladeshi snacks and stalls.
With such an overwhelming response from the public, BADA’s Pohela Boishakh has already become a new highlight in Birmingham’s cultural calendar — and a hopeful sign of more to come!
