Colorful kites covered the skies of old Dhaka city as thousands of enthusiastic city-dwellers took part in the kite festival, more popularly known as Shakrain. Anika Khan reports.
Held at the end of Poush, the ninth month of the Bengali calendar, Shakrain is one of the oldest annual festivals of Bangladesh. Also known as the (Kite festival), Bengalis from all walks of life celebrate this day with their friends and families, participating in kite flying competitions and devouring ethnic delicacies.
This year the global Pandemic didn’t stop people from gathering in the oldest part of Dhaka city to experience an event unlike any other on. The festival started early on Tuesday morning. People woke up early to prepare for the kite competition. They gathered in front of the street stalls to purchase kites, lanterns, fireworks, and other essentials.
Towhid, a resident of Wari, Old Dhaka said, ” My entire family has come together to celebrate Shakrain. This is something very close to our heart and is a vital part of our old Dhaka tradition”. He further added,” We have welcomed people from all other parts of Dhaka with open arms”.
As the day progressed, the fierce kite competition started. Young boys and girls screamed, “Bhakatta Lot” every time a kite flyer defeated some one else.
As twilight approached, fireworks and lanterns lit up the sky. The festival continued till late at night with Dj parties and music.
