Top 10 Cultural Festivals of Bangladesh

Bangladesh, a land rich in heritage and traditions, organises many colourful festivals in almost every month of the year. All these events reflect the diversity of our country, religious harmony, and artistry. A glimpse into the top 10 culture festivals in Bangladesh that one should not miss!

1. Pohela Boishakh (Bengali New Year)

Celebrated on 14 April, Pohela Boishakh heralds the beginning of the Bengali New Year. The streets are filled with parades, music, traditional panta-ilish, and fairs. Among the iconic places to visit at this festival is Ramna Park, which includes Dhaka University.

2. Nabanna Utsab (Harvest Festival)

New rice means Nabanna, and Nabanna marks the new harvest. Folk songs and dances fill the villages and the cities, along with the ever-fresh pitha, which represents abundance and a heart filled with gratitude.

3. Ekushey February (Language Movement Day)

February 21 marks the day we remember the martyrs of the 1952 Language Movement in Bangladesh. People walk barefoot to the Shaheed Minar (Martyrs' Monument) to lay flowers and pay their tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for the right to speak Bangla. It is also known as International Mother Language Day worldwide.

4. Durga Puja

One of the largest Hindu festivals is Durga Puja, marking the Goddess Durga's victory over evil. Elaborate pandals (temporary temples) and a riot of colours engulf places like Dhaka and Chattogram in vibrant cultural performances.

5. Eid-ul-Fitr 

This festival comes after fasting for a whole month during Ramadan, the first of which is Eid al-Fitr.

Eid brings happiness to every Muslim household. Wearing new clothes, special types of dishes like biryani and sweets, and the best part is to show generosity and togetherness.

6. Bishwa Ijtema 

"Every year, near Dhaka, Bishwa Ijtema is hosted and recognised as one of the world's largest Muslim congregations. 

7. Dhaka International Film Festival (DIFF) 

First conducted in 1992, this has been a prestigious festival for displaying films internationally over the years. Filmmakers, artists, and cinephiles gather for the love of art through storytelling and exchange or dialogue between different cultures. 

8. Pahela Falgun (Spring Festival) 

Pahela Falgun announces the arrival of spring on February 13. People wear rays of yellow and red for the colour of life. The streets of Dhaka are colourful celebrations of music and dance, especially at Dhaka University's Fine Arts Institute. 

9. Poush Mela

Poush Mela is usually observed in villages, marking an end to the harvesting season. Folk songs, crafts, and fairs are part of this village festival. It is an excellent way to experience the rich cultural vibe of the countryside. 

10. Lalon Mela

The festival takes place in Kushtia and is devoted to the mystic Baul saint, Lalon Shah. The masses come here to pay their homage to the philosophy of love, equality, and spiritual freedom, according to Lalon's philosophy, through Baul songs and cultural discussions. 

Conclusion: 

Bangladesh's cultural festivals remain treasures of art, tradition, and spirituality. They defy religion and background, presenting the vibrant heart of a nation. So if you intend to visit, try to schedule your trip alongside these festivals so that you can feel the real soul of Bangladesh. 

 FAQ 

Which is the largest festival in Bangladesh? 

Pohela Boishakh is the biggest cultural festival that people of all ages and religions celebrate. 

When is Bishwa Ijtema celebrated? 

Bishwa Ijtema is generally held in January yearly in Tongi, near Dhaka. 

Which festival is celebrated in Bangladesh to announce the arrival of spring? 

Pahela Falgun is the colourful music and dance celebration of spring taking birth.

Read Also: https://bangladeshranking.com/post/Top_10_Traditional_Foods_in_Bangladesh/91