On behalf of President Obama and the American people, I am delighted to wish a happy and prosperous New Year to Bengalis everywhere. We rejoice along with all those from Bangladesh, India, and around the world who gather today to celebrate the arrival of the new year.

Pohela Boishakh is a time of renewal and reconciliation. It is a time for families and friends to celebrate their heritage and culture, to reflect on the past year, and to look forward to the year ahead.

For Americans, this day is an opportunity to recognize the contributions of hundreds of thousands of Bengali Americans, who have made their mark in so many ways, including in science, business, public service, law, medicine.

May we begin this new year with a sense of hope and optimism. Shubho Noboborsho!