Imagine a place surrounded by eye soothing green trees, chirping birds, cats and dogs sleeping peacefully in human laps, butterfly-fireflies humming together with mystic wind. No, it’s not your la la land. It’s reality. It’s Jahangirnagar University in winter.
Pitha Utsab
Starting with Pitha Utsab (where students showcase their brilliance with their cooking skills). Students set up stalls with unique kinds of pitha. Each stall represents a part of our country and culture. In urban areas where deshi food is losing its popularity, such an initiative by the young generation is praiseworthy. Visitors taste food from various stalls. The fun part is, the one whose dish tastes the best gets a prize. This encourages the students to organise such programmes more. More than anything, “The Pitha Utsab” presents a chance to taste food that is made with a lot of care away from home.
Pakhi mela
Next comes “Pakhi Mela”. JU is famous for being the nest of guest birds in winter. Years of this tradition made a strong connection between birds and students of JU. Thus, to create public awareness on bird conservation, “Pakhi Mela 2025” was held on 3 January 2025 at Jahangirnagar University campus. The event was co-hosted by the Department of Zoology, Jahangirnagar University, IUCN, and Bangladesh Forest Department with others. Such initiatives can go a long way to make the environment safe for birds.
Projapati mela
Next comes the butterfly. Like who does not like butterflies? Colourful butterflies make everything vibrant. Little me would be so happy to even see a fake butterfly. Here at JU, every year “Projapati Mela” is organised with live butterfly viewings at Wazed Miah Science Research Center and Butterfly Park for visitors. The honourable vice-chancellor said during the inauguration that “People have to learn from butterflies. Butterflies are making an important contribution to the conservation of our biodiversity through pollination without harming anyone. We have to learn from the butterfly to keep the whole world safe. Not only do humans have a responsibility to show compassion to all living things, including butterflies, we also have a moral responsibility towards them. We must refrain from creating divisions in society and destroying nature.” Moreover, many people were awarded for their exceptional contributions in this field. A debate competition was held and documentaries were screened too.
Kuyasha utshob
The 3rd January witnessed the ultimate celebration of winter. Kuyasha Utshob was spreading the taste of fog that touch the soul. was the theme of a fog festival organised by the JU Bondhu Shava. On a hazy winter evening, this anticipated event was organised at Soptom Chayamoncho, JU. Cultural programmes, poetry recitation, songs and the warmth of friendship made for a surreal moment to witness!!
Him Utshob
Last but not the least, the “Hime Utshob” has become the signature program of this cultural capital.
The event will take place from 16-18 January at JU. The event will be arranged by Poromporai Amra. The event page has already opened. Various competitions focusing on our roots will be arranged. The x factor would be the cultural part. Already #হিম_উৎসব_১৪৩১ is trending among JU students. Soon students of other institutes & guests will start coming to Hime Utshob.
JU presents itself with multifarious events for everyone to enjoy. So, what are you waiting for? Visit JU this winter. Why?
~ To feel winter, to feel warmth!