Shakrain Festival

Shakrain is one of the most popular traditional festivals in Bangladesh. It is celebrated on the last day of the month of Poush, which is the coldest month in Bangladesh. The word "Shakrain" is derived from the Sanskrit word "Sankranti", which means "the end of one season and the beginning of a new one". Shakrain is a kite-flying festival, and is also known as the Kite Festival.

The Shakrain festival is traditionally celebrated by the Hindu community of Old Dhaka, but it has now become a festival for people of all religions in Old Dhaka. On the day of Shakrain, the sky of Old Dhaka is filled with kites. People of all ages come together to fly kites and enjoy the festivities.

Another attraction of the Shakrain festival is kite fighting. Kite fighting is a competitive game in which participants use a special type of thread made of glue and glass to try to cut the thread of the other participant's kite. The winner of the kite fight is declared the champion.

On the day of Shakrain, kite fairs are also held in various areas of Old Dhaka. These fairs sell a variety of kites. People of all ages come to the kite fairs to buy kites.

Shakrain is not just a kite-flying festival, it is also a cultural festival. Through this festival, the tradition and culture of Old Dhaka continue to thrive.

History of Shakrain Festival

The history of Shakrain festival is quite ancient. This festival was celebrated in ancient India. At that time, this festival was called "Sankranti". The word "Sankranti" means "the end of one season and the beginning of a new one". The last day of the month of Poush marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring. That is why this day is celebrated as Sankranti.

Shakrain festival was introduced in Bangladesh during the Mughal period. During the reign of Mughal Emperor Akbar, the practice of kite flying began in Bangladesh. During Akbar's reign, kite flying was considered a game. Shakrain festival spread even further during the British rule. During this time, a tradition of kite flying was established in Old Dhaka.

Significance of Shakrain Festival

The Shakrain festival has several significances. Through this festival, the end of winter and the beginning of spring are celebrated. In addition, this festival helps to preserve the tradition of kite flying.