Limon Mia, Sarishabari (Jamalpur) Correspondent
"Celebrate Shimul Phota Festival, cherish local culture" - The Shimul Phota Festival was celebrated for the first time in the country at Sarishabari, Jamalpur, with this theme in mind.
The festival was held with colorful arrangements on Sunday (February 23) at Tanjim Palli in Daulatpur area of Aona Union of the upazila.
The festival was inaugurated by Md. Hasmat Ali, founder of Tanjim Palli's Butterfly Park and Dwijen Sharma Botanical Garden and assistant professor of the Bangla Department of Alhaj Farhad Ali Memorial Degree College.
Advocate Matiur Rahman Talukder College Principal Alamgir Hossain was present as the chief guest at the event. Special guests were Afroza Bulbul, lecturer at Pingna Sujat Ali Honors College, M. M. Mizanur Rahman, lecturer at Pogaldigha Degree College, teacher Azibun Nesa Oni, and others.
The speakers said, Shimul flower is a symbol of the unique beauty of Phagun. People of all ages, from children to the elderly, are fascinated by its crimson beauty. However, unfortunately, the number of Shimul trees in our country is decreasing day by day. The main goal of this festival is to create interest in conserving Shimul and planting native trees among people.
Speakers at the festival discussed the importance of the indigenous Shimul flower and cultural heritage. Guests attending the event appreciated the event focusing on Shimul flower.
In his inaugural speech, Md. Hasmat Ali said, "Shimul, Jarul, Kadam flowers are comparable to any flower in the world in terms of beauty. We will cherish the local culture through the Shimul Phota festival. In the future, initiatives will be taken to spread this festival throughout the country and the planting of Shimul trees will be promoted."
People from various walks of life, including local teachers, students, poets, journalists, and others, participated in the event. Everyone was filled with the sweetness of the Shimul flower, and the joy of the festival spread all around.
