DHAKA: Tens of thousands of Bangladeshis joined a festive and colorful Eid Al-Fitr procession in Dhaka on Monday, as city officials aim to bring back the centuries-old tradition marking the end of Ramadan.
The event, which began in the capital’s Agargaon area and culminated at the National Parliament Building in the city center, featured a marching band, larger-than-life figurines and a cavalry parade.
Monday’s festivities were reminiscent of Dhaka’s Eid celebrations in the 18th century, when its governors, known as Naib Nazim, would lead vibrant parades snaking through the streets of the capital.
“The Eid parade in Dhaka is considered a tradition of this city. This tradition began in the late 18th century and continued until the first quarter of the 19th century,” Muntasir Mamun, a former history professor at Dhaka University, told Arab News.
“The Naib Nazim used to ride on an elephant and lead the colorful parade, followed by their soldiers and associates … This Eid parade tradition was at its peak during the early 19th century … The people used to observe this parade standing on both sides of the streets and rooftops.”
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As the procession became a tradition during a transition period following the decline of the Mughal Empire, the grand events were known to have taken elements from that era, including in costumes and displays.
The annual parades eventually tapered off during British rule but took place at least once while Bangladesh was under Pakistan, Mamun said.
This year’s procession marks the revival of the centuries-old tradition, as the government in Dhaka is planning to turn it into an annual event.
“We want Dhaka to have its own story. The Muslims of Dhaka and the culture of Dhaka will be the essence of this story,” Mohammed Azaz, an administrator at the Dhaka North City Corporation, told Arab News.
“Here, the Muslims have a 400-year-old history and culture. With this Eid parade, we want to revive the Bengal Muslims’ history, culture and tradition … That’s why we organized the parade in accordance with the style of the Mughals.”
As the beating of the drums and sounds of trumpets filled the busy streets of Dhaka on Monday morning to mark Eid Al-Fitr, city residents were beaming with pride and excitement.
“I just came here after offering the Eid prayer … It’s a unique experience for me,” local resident Nikita Begum told Arab News after the event.
“It’s very energetic and refreshing to experience … such a colorful Eid parade … Different types of music are being played here, and it creates an amusing environment for people of all ages. I liked it a lot.”
