Shakrain in Old Dhaka: A celebration of kites and fireworks
Second-grader Dev recently visited Shakhari Bazar in Old Dhaka with his father to purchase kites for the upcoming Shakrain festival. Although Dev does not yet know how to fly kites, his excitement led his father to bring him along.
Such scenes are common at Shakhari Bazar these days, as teenagers, adults, and even elderly enthusiasts crowd the shops to buy colourful and intricately designed kites.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. Shakrain, a centuries-old festival, is celebrated at the end of the Bengali month of "Poush" during the winter season. It is primarily a kite-flying festival where residents of Old Dhaka, irrespective of religion, come together in a festive spirit.
This year, Shakrain will be observed tomorrow (January 14), and preparations are well underway.
Shakhari Bazar, the hub of the celebrations, has transformed into a bustling market with at least 80 shops selling kites and kite strings. Thousands of kites are brought daily at these shops from factories, where skilled artisans craft them with care. Since December, the skies over Old Dhaka have already begun to fill with colourful kites.
A visit to Shakhari Bazar reveals a lively atmosphere, with shops stocked full of kites, reels, and strings. Temporary stalls have also sprung up along the footpaths, offering similar items. Both large retailers and roadside vendors are part of the vibrant scene.
Kite prices vary based on size, shape, and quality, starting at Tk 5 and going up to Tk 150. Reels, available in bamboo and steel varieties, are priced between Tk 150 and Tk 350, while strings range from Tk 50 to Tk 500. The kites come in unique designs with names such as Shingdar, Chokhudar, Mompolish, Lavdar, Tekka Dar, Duiboa, Charboa, Short Range, Pach Ranga, and Char Ranga.
On Shakrain day, the sky will be filled with colourful kites from noon to evening as rooftops become gathering spots for people of all ages. Children and teenagers will compete in kite-flying contests, while adults and seniors will enjoy the festivities, reminiscing about their own childhoods. Traditional foods such as muri moa (puffed rice cakes), bakarkhani, and different types of pithas (rice cakes) are integral to the celebration. In the evening, the festival will take on a modern twist with fireworks and sky lanterns illuminating the night until midnight.
Polok, a resident of Old Dhaka, said, "Every year, we celebrate Shakrain. I have been part of this festival since childhood, though I do not know its exact origins. It is deeply rooted in our culture. This year, I bought 150 kites for my children."
Another customer, Naeem, said, "I came with my brother to buy kites. So far, I have picked eight kites and might buy more."
Amir Hossain, a resident of Gendaria, brought his 10-year-old son, Asif, to buy kites. "We used to fly kites in our time," he said. "Now, it is our children's turn. We buy kites for them every year. Watching them fly reminds us of our golden past."
However, buyers and sellers expressed concern over increased prices this year. Kite seller Ankon Biswas said, "Prices of kites and strings are slightly higher this year, which we have to explain to customers. Additionally, there are fewer kite artisans now, so the supply of kites is not meeting demand."
Md Wasim, another seller, said, "Sales will peak on the day before Shakrain and Shakrain day itself. While people are gathering now, sales are moderate. We expect it to pick up in the coming days."
As the festival approaches, Shakhari Bazar is buzzing with excitement, embodying the spirit of Shakrain—a celebration of tradition, community, and joy.
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