Dhaka’s sky lit up with Shakrain kites, lights, fireworks
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Dhaka’s sky lit up with Shakrain kites, lights, fireworks

Dhaka’s sky lit up with Shakrain kites, lights, fireworks
Photo: Md Rakibul Hasan/UNB


Shakrain – a celebration of kites and lights – is one of the oldest festivals of Bangladesh. It starts with kite flying and ends with unity and friendship.

The festival is an annual celebration in Dhaka which marks the end of the ninth month of Bengali calendar – Poush. The day is also known as Poush Sankranti and Shakrain or Ghuri Utshob.

Shakrain is celebrated mostly in the southern part of Dhaka city where colourful kites fill the sky. 

Also read: Shakrain: Recognising the root of Old Dhaka

Thousands of people get on their rooftops to sing, dance and fly kites of different colours and shapes. They also have kite fights with their neighbours.

And when the winter sun starts setting, parties and fireworks take over the festivities. Music awakens the whole town and flamboyant groups arrange daylong programmes, including concerts and parties.

Also read: Shakrain: A jewel in the crown of Old Dhaka traditions

Flame-eaters and fire-spinners gather on rooftops to entertain people with their skills.

A UNB Photojournalist captured the colours and lights of Shakrain at Old Dhaka on Thursday.

People of Old Dhaka fly kites from the roof of their apartment complexes to celebrate Shakrain.

Youths climb to their rooftops to sing and dance.

Flame-eaters entertain people with their skills.

Dazzling light shows brighten Old Dhaka’s night sky.

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