Shakrain Festival Spirit Soars Over Old Dhaka Rooftops

News Desk – 02 May 2025: The Shakrain festival spirit once again lit up the rooftops of Old Dhaka, as residents celebrated with vibrant tradition.

Marking the end of Poush in the Bengali calendar, Shakrain or “Poush Sankranti” is a day of unity and festivity. Streets and rooftops in Narinda turned into kite arenas, while homes filled with the aroma of pithas and date-palm jaggery.

In Narinda, an iconic Old Dhaka neighborhood, residents gathered with fragrant rice cakes and festive anticipation. Syed Jahangir, 74, shared his family’s memories of dawn feasts and rooftop kite fights.

“For us, the Shakrain festival spirit begins with pithas and ends with kite victories,” he said, smiling at the memories.

His wife, Nasima Jahan, recalled preparing chitoi pithas and duck meat alongside beef tehari. “The food meant more than sustenance — it brought everyone together,” she added.

By 8 AM, rooftops filled with colorful kites and Bollywood tunes. Scored kite matches unfolded until sunset. “It was joyful and orderly,” Jahangir recalled. Now, their son, Syed Murtaja Jahangir, sees the festival evolving. “Barbecue has replaced pithas, and DJs play instead of classic songs,” he noted.

While younger Dhakaites embrace modern elements, many elders miss the simpler traditions. “It’s louder now, but not necessarily better,” Murtaja reflected. Still, the Shakrain festival spirit persists — fusing old rituals with new flavors. Narinda remains a cherished stronghold of this cultural celebration.

From kite duels to rooftop grills, the festival’s essence continues to bridge generations and tastes.