A century-old 'Shinni Festival' in Manikganj for wellness and unity

In a world where people often go to extraordinary lengths in search of cures for various ailments, a unique and age-old tradition stands out—the Gaonwali Shinni festival. 

This annual ceremony, deeply rooted in tradition, is held yearly in Kunduria village of Nali union in the Ghior upazila of Manikganj district, drawing a vibrant gathering of nearly a thousand people.

From morning to afternoon on a Sunday, the residents of Kunduria village meticulously oversee and assist the cooking process, turning it into a collective effort. 

The culmination of this communal endeavour results in the distribution of Shinni to villagers from surrounding areas in the evening. This Shinni, a concoction of rice and milk, is believed to bring good health, happiness, and prosperity to the village inhabitants and serves as a symbolic wish for a cure for various diseases.

The festive ambience takes place not only in Kunduria but also in other parts of Ghior upazila, such as Rathura village in Baniajuri union, Baratia union, Singjuri, Payla, Pecharkanda, and Kautia area of Baliakhora union. Residents eagerly participate in the festival, contributing amounts ranging from Tk 20 to Tk 500 per person and rice from each household based on their economic status.

An interesting fact of this tradition is that the hosts, those residing in the area where the Shinni is prepared, abstain from taking part in the feast. Md. Kamal Miah, an elder of Rathura village, explains that this rule reflects the respect associated with the practice.

According to villagers, their forefathers initiated this Shinni during times of adversity, battling various dangers and ailments like Cholera. There is a tale of a cholera outbreak a century ago, leading a Fakir to suggest the organising of Shinni. 

The festival proved to be a turning point, with villagers gradually recovering, and since then, it has become an annual tradition observed on a specific day each year.

Abdul Kuddus Madhu, the Chairman of Nali Union Parishad, highlighted the festival's positive impact, stating that it fosters harmony and brotherhood in the community. This age-old tradition, deeply embedded in the rural culture of Manikganj, continues to thrive as a symbol of unity and tradition in the region.

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