Celebrating Muharram in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Muharram or the 'sacred month' is the first month of the Islamic or Hijri calendar. The tenth day of Muharram is called Ashura. Imam Husain (R) the grandson of the Holy Prophet (SM) was killed on this day at the hands of the troops of Yazid.

Muharram has been observed since the 10th century AD. In Bengal also it has been observed for the last few centuries. The centre of observances of Muharram in Dhaka is the Husaini Dalan Imambara. Muharram processions have been common in this country since the 18th century AD. Horses and elephants were used in the processions.

In Dhaka, the procession begins at Husaini Dalan and, after winding its way through the city's streets, terminates at a place designated as Karbala on the banks of the Dhanmandi Lake. The replica of Duldul, the horse of Imam Husain (R) and the flags in the procession symbolize the presence of Imam Husain (R).

Also Latikhela (stick fight) is organised to remind devotees of the battle between the troops of Imam Husain (R) and Yazid.

As with other festivals in Bangladesh, Muharram has become an occasion for fairs at various places.

In course of time it turned into a traditional fair where handicrafts, pottery, brass ware, bows and arrows, swords made of CI sheet were the main exhibits. The merry-go-round and Ferris wheel are added attractions for children. The fair starts from the 7th of Muharram and ends on the llth.

Monpura Island: Bhola, Bangladesh.

Monpura is the name of an island which is situated in Bhola District under char fashion sub district. This island has the rich biodiversity, rich forestry including wildlife like spotted deer, monkeys, pythons and different type and also attractive migratory birds are found there.

During winter season various type of migratory birds take shelter in this island. Then the natural scenario of this island turns to panoramic beauty which is unbelievable without watch that seen. Now the name of Monpura is very much familiar to all of the Bangladeshi.

Moreover it is also known to film industry of the global. Because of that in 2007 one Bangladeshi film named “Monpura” was directed by one popular director Giasuddin Selim of Bangladesh.

This film “Monpura” of Bangladesh is made based on rural lives and this is also very much romantic film. 

What the special attractions of this island:
1. Both sunrise and sunset are visible. You can watch both the natural scenario which is rare and unbelievable without watch.
2. Salt production and fish processing are also attractive to all. Those do not have any idea about this then they will enjoy this.
3. Rich biodiversity and rich mangrove forests made this island attractive to all.
4. Boating and also fishing are also enjoyable to all.
5. watch migratory birds from very close is really mind blowing.

How to reach Monpura Island of Bangladesh:
There are different type of link between Monpura Island and other places of the country Bangladesh. You can use both road and water way to reach Monpura island. If you start your journey from Dhaka to Bhola then by bus you have to drive 325 miles. On the other hand if you use water way, then you have to drive 193 miles. Steamer service is also available for all. But to reach Monpura Island it needs 16 hours journey. This is tentative time for you all to make an idea on the destination.

What time best for visiting this island:
From November to March of every year is the best time for visiting this island.

What are constrains of this island:
1. Lack of accommodation and foods are the constrains of this island.
2.Lack of resort is another constrain of this island.

World Longest Sandy Sea Beach: Cox'sBazar, Bangladesh.