Is culture of Shakrain in Old Dhaka changing?

Shawdesh Desk:

The people of Old Dhaka are all set to celebrate Shakrain, a centuries-old festival, marking the last day of the ninth month of Bengali calendar, Tuesday.

Usually, people fly kites and sky lanterns popularly known as fanus, let off fireworks, and spend time with their friends and family members on rooftops till midnight, celebrating the day.

Youths will fly kites in the morning and release paper lanterns after sunsets. They will also set off spectacular fireworks in the evening.

Different traditional foods are prepared and served to near and dear ones, marking the day, also known as Poush Shankranti.

However, this cultural practice has gradually changed over time.

This year, there was no special excitement before the festival as well as manufacturing and sales of kites dropped significantly.

Visiting various places, including Shankhari Bazar and Tantibazar in the old part of the city on Monday, this correspondent did not see much enthusiasm for the festival.

Traders also expressed their frustrations about the declining sales of kites.

At Shankhari Bazar, colourful kites and other items were seen in the shops, but there was no significant crowd.

Narayan Das, a kite trader in the area, said, “I make kites every year based on orders. Business used to be good during the festival, but it’s gradually decreasing. Now, the people prefer going to DJ parties instead of flying kites.”

Another kite vendor, Hridoy Ghosh, shared, “This time, I could not do the expected business. With the high prices of essentials, the price of kites has also increased.”

Rashem Molla, a resident in Old Dhaka, said, “Earlier Shakrain was the subject of a huge festival. But now the culture has changed. Today’s generation is mostly busy with DJ parties and other events.”

Naeem, who came to buy kites at Shankhari Bazar, said, “Shakrain is mixed with our history and tradition. Every year, we celebrate this festival in a grand manner and this year will be no exception.”

Adi Dhaka Cultural Association President Manas Bose Baburam said, “This festival has been celebrated in Old Dhaka since ancient times. However, the youth of today have transformed this traditional kite-flying festival into a DJ party with drinks. This festival of kite flying should remain as a universal celebration.”

One Shukur Salek said, “This is basically a family festival. Everyone celebrates with their family by flying kites. DJ parties with loud music have intruded into the festival.”