Festive mood ahead of Chaitra Sankranti, Neel Puja in Kuakata temples
Sowmitro Sumon, Payra Port (Patuakhali)
On the eve of Pohela Boishakh, Neel Puja and Chaitra Sankranti celebrations are set to take place in various temples across Kuakata, Dhankhali, and Rangabali in Kalapara Upazila of Patuakhali.
The Hindu communities in these areas are already immersed in a festive atmosphere.
Marking the occasion, young boys and girls from the Sanatan (Hindu) community are dressing up as Shiva–Parvati, Radha–Krishna, Lakshmi, Ram–Lakshman, and sages, and are roaming from house to house. Accompanied by drums, kanshi, and sanai, they are collecting offerings through traditional Gajan processions.
During this time, every household becomes lively and vibrant with devotional songs, dances, chanting of mantras, and ululation.
According to members of the Hindu community, this festival is not only a religious ritual but also a long-standing folk tradition.
Through these practices, people seek to cleanse the sorrows of the outgoing year, pray for good health, and welcome the new year with hopes of happiness and prosperity.
