The New Nation - Internet Edition

'Sakhrine' or 'Paush Sankranti' (the last day of Bengali month 'Paush') is celebrated in Old Dhaka through many traditional festivities. Previously it was celebrated by the Hindu community only but at present it has become the festival for all to bid fare-well to 'Paush'. According to rituals the Hindus begin the festivities with prayers on the day before 'Sakhrine'; and on the morning of 'Paush Sankranti' women engage themselves in preparing special cakes and other delicacies. In the evening, people of different ages and sexes fly kites of different colours from the roofs of their houses, dotting the blue sky with a mixture of colours. At dusk, the festivities are centred around the fire-eating performances which transform humans into fire-breathing dragons. In spite of its religious origin today 'Paush Sankranti' or 'Sakhrine' is a festival of the masses irrespective of caste and creed; it is a time to enjoy oneself and a time to give joy to others.

Photos & Text: Tanvir Ahmed

Credit by DrikNEWS