Dhaka celebrates Eid with vibrant procession, rekindling a lost tradition

Droves of people have joined a celebratory procession organised by the Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) to mark Eid-ul-Fitr.

The procession kicked off at 9am on Monday from the old Trade Fair grounds next to the Bangladesh-China Friendship Exhibition Centre on Monday morning.

Local Government Advisor Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain, accompanied by DNCC Administrator Mohammad Ejaz, initially led the march, which passed through Agargaon and thr Khamar Bari intersection before wrapping up at Manik Mia Avenue.

To ensure public safety, specialised units from the police’s Counter Terrorism and SWAT teams monitored the event closely from the frontlines.

The colourful parade featured a royal horse, around 20 horse-drawn carriages, a marching band, and artworks depicting the Sultanate and Mughal eras.

DNCC placards carried throughout the procession displayed messages of unity and social harmony, such as “Eid means harmony”, “Eid brings a message of joy”, and “Let’s keep our city clean -- don’t litter”.

Following the procession, Advisor Asif Mahmud joined a brief cultural programme at Manik Mia Avenue.

Ahead of the parade, participants were served traditional Eid treats such as shemai (vermicelli) and batasha (sugar candies), a confection with strong ties to Dhaka’s heritage.

Several army vehicles were also spotted in the area, ensuring additional security.

Earlier in the day, the main Eid prayer congregation for Dhaka North was held at 8:30am at the old Trade Fair grounds, led by Imam Qari Golam Mostafa, with Islamic Foundation Assistant Director Mufti Zubair Ahmad Al-Azhari on standby.

Speaking to the media on Sunday about the preparations, DNCC Administrator Ejaz said that security surrounding the celebrations had been given the highest priority.

“Multiple layers of security have been deployed. The area has been brought under full CCTV surveillance, and law-enforcing agencies have been working on the ground for the past week. We’ve ensured that entire families can enjoy the DNCC Eid celebrations together.”

“The Eid procession is open to everyone -- men and women of all religions and backgrounds. People of other faiths are also expected to join. Through this event, we aim to revive Dhaka’s 400-year-old tradition of Eid processions.”

He noted that this was the first time such an Eid procession was being organised on such a large scale, adding: “By participating in the procession, people will have a chance to be part of that history.”

A DNCC is also hosting a two-day Eid fair at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Exhibition Centre. Around 200 stalls are set up there.

The fair will feature a variety of goods, food items, and snacks like chotpoti. Children will be able to enjoy rides like the Ferris wheel and various games. The fair is open to the public, with several activities dedicated especially to children.