From the moment the festival began, it was clear that this was no ordinary event. It wasn't just about yoga sessions or meditation corners; it was an intricate blend of activities designed to enrich the individual and the collective.

The Dhaka Flow Festival 2024 has been a celebration of mindfulness and connection, set against the buzzing backdrop of Gulshan Society Lake Park. For two days, the park transformed into a vibrant hub where people from all walks of life—children, young adults, and the elderly, gathered to embrace wellness, creativity, and community. The air hummed with anticipation as visitors meandered through the thoughtfully curated spaces, each offering an experience to ignite curiosity and nurture the soul.

There were sessions on sound healing, art therapy, dance improvisation, and even a concept as simple yet profound as 'Shareapy,' where strangers became confidants, exchanging stories and solace in a shared space. A gratitude wall stood as a quiet centrepiece, inviting participants to reflect and express their thankfulness amidst the busy hum of the festival.

Local and international wellness experts lent their expertise, adding a global flair to the proceedings. Yogini and Dhaka Flow co-founder, Shazia Omar explained the philosophy behind it all, saying, "This approach to holistic wellness is much more sustainable as it focuses not only on individual mental and physical well-being but also on fostering a mindful and conscious community."

Her words resonated in every festival corner, from the meditation garden to the bustling food stalls.

The festival began with transformative sessions one of which was led by Vari Morales, an international wellness guru, who seamlessly blended movement and mindfulness.

Speaking about his first visit to Bangladesh, Morales shared, "It's inspiring to see a community coming together with such conscious intent for a sustainable future. Events like this may seem casual to outsiders but they require immense patience and hard work to execute. The vendors here are showcasing handmade products that reflect this culture, which is truly remarkable." 

The festival was not confined to physical or mental rejuvenation; it embraced sustainability in every detail. Vendors showcased local, eco-friendly products—cotton, jute, wood and other natural materials taking centre stage, with everything from clothing lines to handcrafted decor on display. 

Humaira Khan, a renowned fashion designer, presented her sustainable collection under her label Anikini, standing alongside a few other designers showcasing eco-conscious practices. Her collection was crafted from local resources like cotton, jute, and khadi reflecting her commitment to promoting Bangladeshi heritage on a global stage. 

She shared her vision saying, "As a brand, we are trying to create a Bangladeshi identity and stand as an individual in front of the world with our local resources. This event stands apart—it's not just about selling or chasing trends; it is about lifestyle and philosophy for the next generation. Most people here seem deeply aware of the environmental challenges we face and that awareness gives me hope"

Her words align with the festival's vision, blending sustainability with cultural consciousness in a way which resonated deeply with visitors.

The food stalls reflected this ethos as well. Each vendor brought at least one healthy, creative option to the table. From sugar-free ice creams to Bandarban-special coffee, the culinary offerings mirrored the festival's commitment to mindful choices. It was not just about feeding the body but nourishing the spirit.

The second day of the Dhaka Flow Festival offered an extensive mixture of activities that was vibrant yet calming. Yoga Beats at Sunset with Shazzy Om and DJ OMDG drew a serene crowd, blending rhythmic flows with ambient music.

Nearby, the Meditation Garden hosted a soothing Sound Healing session by Swayambhu, providing a haven of stillness.

Art enthusiasts joined collaborative projects at the Art & Soul Corner, while others explored improvisation theatre or participated in dance healing sessions.

Beyond the daily highlights, the festival featured a range of thoughtful activities for community building that exemplified its aspiration for holistic well-being. It also brought interactive activities for children, including a dedicated playground and creative workshops, ensuring every member of the family could engage.

What tied the festival all together was the spirit of community.

Benjamin Morgan, a visitor, captured it perfectly when he remarked, "This isn't just another event. It's a place that brings like-minded people together and connects them through shared interests. The traditional dances, unique products, yoga sessions, and cultural expressions create an experience that's as enriching as it is entertaining."

Organisers ensured that every detail reflected a commitment to environmental responsibility from decorations to merchandise to the absence of plastic disposables. Panel discussions explored topics ranging from eco-conscious living to the intersection of wellness and sustainability, sparking conversations that extended far beyond the event itself.

As the festival came to a close, it left behind more than memories—it planted seeds of mindfulness, creativity, and collective care.

The Dhaka Flow Festival was a fleeting escape from the mundane and an invitation to rethink how we live, connect, and grow together. For those who attended, the experience will likely linger, inspiring subtle yet profound changes in their everyday lives.

Photo: Shadab Shahrokh Hai