Flower floating marks start of Biju festival, prayers for world peace
Chakma community welcomes the New Year with traditional rituals, cultural attire, and a call for harmony and global peace
ATT Correspondent 
The three-day Biju festival of the Chakma community began on Sunday with traditional flower floating ceremonies, symbolising the farewell to the old year and the welcome of the new one.
The first day of the festival, known as “Phool Biju,” started at dawn as people gathered at rivers, streams, and waterfalls to float flowers and offer prayers for peace and harmony across the world, reports Prothom Alo.
Men, women, and children from the Chakma community took part in the rituals, dressed in traditional attire. Women wore the customary pinon and hadi, while men joined in wearing dhotis.
At the Chengi River near the rubber dam area in Panchhari upazila, a large number of people were seen participating in the flower floating ceremony early in the morning. Many had travelled from nearby villages to join the celebrations.
Among them was Basundhara Chakma, an elderly participant who came with her grandchildren from a nearby area. She said she had been attending the ritual for years and prayed for peace, unity, and well-being for all.
Young participants also joined in large numbers. Prisila Chakma said she and her friends floated flowers in the river, hoping for happiness and peace in the coming days. She added that she looks forward to the festival every year.
The festival also attracted visitors from outside the region. Some visitors said they had come after previously experiencing the event and were impressed by its cultural significance and festive atmosphere.
Local community leaders said the Biju festival has been celebrated for generations and represents joy, unity, and social bonding. They noted that the tradition continues to bring people together and strengthen community ties.
