Aarohi 2026: Roots, Rhythms & Community Spirit

A Beautiful Celebration of Bengali New Year by BAAC

The Bengali Association of Atlantic Canada (BAAC) joyfully celebrated Aarohi 2026 – Roots & Rhythms on Saturday, April 18th, bringing the community together for an evening filled with culture, music, dance, food, and festive connection.

The event was a vibrant celebration of Bengali heritage and community spirit, creating a warm and inclusive space for families, friends, newcomers, youth, and cultural enthusiasts across Atlantic Canada.

🎭 A Stage Full of Culture and Talent

The cultural program was the heart of the evening, showcasing a beautiful blend of music, dance, poetry, drama, instrumental performances, choir presentations, and band performances.

The evening opened with energetic performances by children, including chorus presentations, poetry recitations, piano and violin recitals, solo songs, and graceful dance performances. These young performers brought joy, confidence, and freshness to the stage, reminding everyone of the importance of nurturing the next generation of cultural ambassadors.

The program continued with colourful group dances, expressive solo performances, adult choir presentations, soulful songs, and a powerful dramatic segment that brought together both children and adults. Later in the evening, the audience enjoyed a musical tribute, guitar performance, and a lively band performance that carried the energy through to the end of the celebration.

🤝 Thank You to Our Title Sponsor: Atlantic Lottery Canada

BAAC was proud to welcome Stephanie Ryan, Director of Social Responsibility & Talent Management, representing our valued title sponsor, Atlantic Lottery Canada. Her remarks highlighted the importance of community, inclusion, and cultural celebration.

In a touching moment on stage, Stephanie was felicitated with a beautiful flower bouquet presented by children from the community — a heartfelt gesture of appreciation for Atlantic Lottery Canada’s support in helping make Aarohi 2026 a memorable and meaningful celebration.

Stephanie shared warm reflections after the event, describing Aarohi as an impressive and vibrant celebration that brought the rich cultural heritage of Bengal to life here in Atlantic Canada. She highlighted the incredible food, music, dance, and storytelling, and noted how each performance reflected long-held traditions.

Her message beautifully recognized the warmth and generosity of the BAAC community and organizing committees, and the pride, joy, and depth of Bengali culture that came through throughout the evening.

“…your [ ] warmth and generosity were felt throughout the evening, and the pride, joy, and depth of Bengali culture truly came through. From the folk music to the traditional dance, it was a memorable experience and I’m grateful to have been included. Thank you again for making me feel so welcome.”
— Stephanie Ryan, Atlantic Lottery Canada

🍽️ A Delicious Culinary Experience

No Bengali celebration is complete without food, and Aarohi 2026 offered guests a delicious culinary experience that added warmth and flavour to the evening.

Guests enjoyed festive snacks, refreshing drinks, tea-time treats, and a satisfying dinner platter that brought together familiar flavours and celebratory comfort. The food became another way for attendees to connect, share stories, and enjoy the spirit of togetherness.

📸 Dinner Platter

📸 Festive Photo Booth Moments

A festive photo booth with a colourful cultural backdrop gave attendees the perfect opportunity to capture memories with family and friends. The photo booth quickly became a popular corner of the event, adding fun, laughter, and keepsake moments throughout the evening.

🌟 A Celebration to Remember

Aarohi 2026 was more than an event — it was a celebration of roots, rhythm, belonging, and the growing strength of our Atlantic Canadian community.

BAAC extends heartfelt thanks to all performers, volunteers, attendees, community members, families, and partners who helped make the evening such a success.

📷 Event Gallery

Relive some of the moments from Aarohi 2026 captured through the lens of Sourav Ghosh and Arijit Acharjee. For videos of the performances captured by Debabrato Mandal, visit the YouTube playlist or see below the pictures.