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The Eid festival, particularly Eid-ul-Fitr, is one of Bangladesh's most significant cultural and religious events. It marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, and is celebrated with immense joy, communal prayers, feasts, and the exchange of gifts. For rural communities in Bangladesh, Eid is not just a religious occasion but also a time for social bonding, economic activity, and cultural expression.
In recent years, the role of remittances-money sent home by migrant workers abroad-has become increasingly central to how Eid is celebrated in rural Bangladesh. These remittances have transformed the socio-economic landscape of rural areas, influencing everything from consumer behaviour to social dynamics during the festival. As of March 19, 2025, remittances have reached an all-time high, with over $2.25 billion. This influx of money has a profound impact on the way Eid is celebrated in rural Bangladesh, shaping traditions, aspirations, and community life.
Remittances have become a lifeline for many rural households in Bangladesh, particularly those with family members working in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, Europe, and North America. According to recent data from the Bangladesh Bank, remittances accounted for nearly 6 per cent of the country's GDP in 2024, with a significant portion of these funds being sent ahead of major festivals like Eid.
For rural families, the arrival of remittances before Eid is a moment of great anticipation. It allows them to settle debts, purchase new clothes, prepare festive meals, and participate in communal celebrations. In many ways, remittances have elevated the standard of living for these families, enabling them to celebrate Eid in ways that were previously unimaginable.
One of the most visible impacts of remittances on Eid celebrations in rural Bangladesh is the surge in consumer spending. Markets in rural areas come alive in the weeks leading up to Eid, with shops stocked with clothing, jewellery, electronics, and other goods. Remittance-receiving households are often the biggest spenders, driving demand for high-quality products. For instance, the sale of luxury items such as smartphones, home appliances, and branded clothing has seen a significant uptick in rural markets due to the purchasing power provided by remittances.
The tradition of buying new clothes for Eid, known as "Eid shopping," has taken on new dimensions with the influx of remittances. In the past, many rural families could only afford simple, locally made clothing for Eid. However, remittances have enabled them to purchase more expensive, fashionable attire, often imported from urban centres or abroad. This shift has led to a blending of traditional and modern styles, with rural youth increasingly opting for Western-style clothing alongside traditional outfits like panjabis and saris.
The demand for high-end fabrics, intricate embroidery, and designer labels has grown, reflecting the changing tastes and aspirations of remittance-receiving families. This trend is not just about clothing but also about social status; wearing expensive Eid outfits is seen as a marker of success and a way to honour the sacrifices made by family members working abroad.
Food is another central aspect of Eid celebrations, and remittances have significantly influenced the way rural families prepare and consume festive meals. Traditional Eid dishes such as biryani, kebabs, and sweets are now prepared with higher-quality ingredients, often purchased from speciality stores or urban markets.
Remittance-receiving households are also more likely to host large gatherings, inviting extended family, friends, and neighbours to share in the festivities. This generosity is seen as a way to give back to the community and strengthen social ties. In some cases, families use remittances to purchase livestock for Qurbani, the ritual sacrifice of animals during Eid-ul-Adha, which is then distributed among the poor. This practice not only fulfils a religious obligation but also reinforces the family's standing within the community.
The impact of remittances on Eid celebrations extends beyond material consumption to social and cultural practices. In rural Bangladesh, Eid is a time for family reunions, and remittances often make it possible for migrant workers to return home for the festival. While not all migrants can afford to travel, those who do bring with them not only money but also new ideas, experiences, and cultural influences from their host countries.
This exchange enriches rural communities, introducing them to different ways of celebrating Eid and fostering a sense of global connectedness. For instance, some families have adopted the practice of decorating their homes with lights and ornaments, a trend inspired by celebrations in the Middle East. Similarly, the use of technology to connect with loved ones abroad has become an integral part of Eid celebrations, with video calls and social media platforms enabling families to share the joy of the festival across borders.
However, the reliance on remittances for Eid celebrations also highlights certain challenges and inequalities within rural communities. Not all families have members working abroad, and those who do not receive remittances often struggle to keep up with the rising expectations for Eid spending. This disparity can lead to feelings of exclusion and social stratification, as remittance-receiving families are perceived as more prosperous and influential. This phenomenon underscores the need for broader economic development and support for rural households that do not benefit from remittances.
Moreover, the influx of remittances has also led to changes in traditional gender roles and family dynamics. In many cases, the male members of the family migrate for work, leaving women to manage household finances and make decisions about Eid preparations. This shift has empowered many rural women, giving them greater control over household expenditures and enabling them to participate more actively in community life.
However, it has also placed additional responsibilities on women, who must navigate the complexities of managing remittances while maintaining social and familial harmony. The pressure to ensure that Eid celebrations meet the expectations of both the family and the community can be particularly taxing for women, highlighting the need for support systems and resources to help them balance these roles.
The role of remittances in shaping Eid celebrations in rural Bangladesh also has broader implications for the country's economy and society. The steady flow of remittances has helped stabilise rural economies, providing a buffer against economic shocks and contributing to poverty reduction.
However, it has also created a dependency on overseas employment, with many rural families viewing migration as the primary path to economic mobility. This reliance on remittances raises questions about the sustainability of this model, particularly in the face of global economic uncertainties and changing migration policies.
The Bangladesh government has introduced several initiatives to encourage investment and entrepreneurship among returning migrants. These initiatives aim to channel remittances into productive sectors and reduce dependency on overseas employment. If successful, these efforts could transform the way remittances are utilised, creating new opportunities for rural development and innovation.
The impact of remittances on Eid celebrations in rural Bangladesh is multifaceted, reflecting both the opportunities and challenges associated with this economic phenomenon. Remittances have undoubtedly enhanced the quality of life for many rural families, enabling them to celebrate Eid with greater joy, generosity, and creativity. At the same time, they have also exacerbated social inequalities and created new pressures for households that do not benefit from this financial inflow.
As Bangladesh continues to navigate the complexities of globalisation and migration, the role of remittances in shaping cultural and social practices like Eid will remain a topic of significant interest and importance. By addressing the challenges and leveraging the opportunities presented by remittances, rural communities in Bangladesh can build a more inclusive and sustainable future, ensuring that the spirit of Eid continues to bring people together in celebration and solidarity.
Dr Matiur Rahman is a researcher and development worker.