As part of the Hridoye Dhaka 416 celebrations, a colorful procession was brought out in the capital showcasing the rich history, heritage and culture of Dhaka to the new generation.
Under the arrangement of the Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC), thousands of people spontaneously participated in the procession, which began at Laxmibazar in Old Dhaka, passed through various streets and ended at Nagar Bhaban, the DSCC headquarters.
The festive procession showcased, on a large canvas, Dhaka’s archaeological landmarks, traditional culture, food, modes of transport and various aspects of urban life.
Among the landmarks depicted were Lalbagh Fort, Ahsan Manzil, Baitul Mukarram National Mosque, the Central Shaheed Minar, Lalkuthi, Tara Mosque, Dhakeshwari Temple, the Buddhist Temple and the historic Dhaka Gate.
A special attraction of the procession was the portrayal of historical figures who contributed to the establishment and development of Dhaka.
Participants dressed in the likeness of historical personalities such as Queen Victoria, Nawab Khwaja Ahsanullah, Neela Rag (Ray), Nicholas Pogose, Jinnabai and Pari Bibi brought the city’s past history to life.
The procession also featured representations of Old Dhaka’s traditional food culture, including bakarkhani, Nanna Biryani and Beauty Lacchi.
Exhibitions of steamers, horse-drawn carriages and palanquins, recalling the city’s transportation systems of the past, also fascinated city dwellers.
After the procession ended at Nagar Bhaban, DSCC administrator Md Abdus Salam told the media the month-long ‘Hridoye Dhaka 416’ festival has been launched to showcase Dhaka’s history and heritage to the residents of the city and people around the world.
The entire area of Old Dhaka turned into a vibrant festival, with people of all ages gathering along both sides of the streets and young men and women, children and teenagers participating in colorful attire, creating an atmosphere of joy and excitement.
