Dhaka prepping up for Shakrain

Dhaka: Shakrain, one of the most awaited festivals in the neighbourhoods of Puran Dhaka (Old Town), is less than 24 hours away. With every passing moment, excitement increases for the fun-filled festival in the alleys of Old Town in the capital.

Every year, Shakrain is observed on January 14 and 15 in celebration of Makar Sankranti. Pithas made with new rice, kite flying, rooftop DJ party, and fireworks on the occasion are age-old traditions.

Preparations for the festival are seen in Shankharibazar, Tantibazar, Laxmibazar, Narinda, Sutrapur and Lalbagh areas of Old Town. Kites and kite reels are being sold at small neighbourhood shops. Amid the festivities, many have begun a seasonal business of selling kites.

According to shopkeepers, kites of different designs and shapes, including Chokhadar, Pandar, Kathadar, Maladar, Pankhiraj, Chalandar, Petidar, Pandar, Prajapati, Dapas, Batur and Chil are available.

Ordinary kites are sold at BDT 5 to BDT 25 based on the shape. Foreign kites of different designs cost BDT 150 to BDT 600.

A thousand yards of Manja yarn from India or China costs BDT 150.

However, shopkeepers claimed, sales are lower this year than pre-pandemic times.

For the second time, DSCC is also organising a programme in celebration of the festival. The standing committee on sports and culture of the organisation will hold the festival across all wards, starting with the inauguration event at Lalbagh Kella.