Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has in a statement vowed to maintain Bangladesh as a non communal, democratic country. Hasina said this in a message amid countrywide celebrations today to mark the Bengali New Year.

Meanwhile, thousands of people turned out on the streets and parks to celebrate 'Pahela Baishakh' to welcome the Bengali New year 1420.

Cultural and musical groups ushered in the first day of the new year with songs and other performances at city parks, besides a big 'mongol Shobhajatra' procession by fine art students and youngsters in the capital.