Shahariar Islam Sovon :
Old Dhaka transformed into a vibrant hub of excitement and celebration as the centuries-old Shakrain Festival brought the city to life with kite battles, rooftop revelries, and dazzling fire-breathing performances.
The annual festival, held on the last day of Poush in the Bengali calendar, saw residents take to their rooftops to celebrate with colorful kites, traditional feasts, and spectacular nighttime displays of fireworks and sky lanterns, blending age-old traditions with modern-day festivity.
Residents of Old Dhaka, known for their spirited cultural heritage, marked the day with a host of activities, including kite flying, rooftop parties, music, and traditional feasts.
The festivities began early in the morning with locals taking to their rooftops, armed with kites of various shapes, colors, and sizes, and continued until late into the night.
The sky became a canvas of colors as kites danced against the winter breeze. Participants engaged in friendly kite battles, shouting “Bho kaata!” as they successfully cut an opponent’s kite string, a hallmark of the event.
Families, friends, and neighbors joined together, reinforcing the community spirit that Old Dhaka is known for.
As the sun set, the celebration took a dazzling turn with fireworks and sky lanterns illuminating the night sky.
Music blared from rooftops, while traditional food like pithas, biryani, and kebabs added flavor to the festivities.
Fire-breathing performances, a unique highlight of the event, drew large crowds and added an extra spark to the evening.
Despite its deep historical roots, Sakrain has evolved to include modern elements such as laser light shows, electronic dance music, and live DJ performances.
This blend of tradition and modernity has made the festival popular among younger generations, ensuring its relevance in the contemporary era.
“This festival is not just about fun but also about preserving our culture and history,” said Mohammad Hanif, a resident of Lalbagh.
Another local, Ayesha Akter, shared, “Sakrain unites everyone in Old Dhaka, regardless of age or background. It’s a day we all look forward to.”
The Dhaka Metropolitan Police ensured tight security during the event, facilitating smooth celebrations across the area.
With its lively atmosphere and deep cultural significance, Sakrain continues to be a cherished tradition, showcasing the rich heritage of Old Dhaka and bringing its residents closer together.
