Bangladeshi daily life is replete with traditions
and
festivals that reflect the unique culture and tradition of Bangladeshis.
Some
of the tradition and customs are as ancient as prehistoric days, while
others
are relatively recent. The indigenous customs and festivals that has
been
preserved and nurtured through the ages are principally center around
agricultural practices. These include nabonno (the
festival of the new harvest) and pawhela boishAkh
(the Bengali new Year). Religion has also played a distinct role in
shaping the
mores and traditions of Bangladeshi life.
Bangladesh is a predominantly Muslim country, and
Islam's
adherents in Bangladesh celebrate the joyous festival of the two Eids,
Eid-ul-Fitr, and Eid-ul-Azha, the month of Ramadan, Shab-e-Qadr,
Shab-e-Barat
etc. Hindus in Bangladesh celebrate Durga Puja, Kali Puja and
Janmastami.
The Buddhists celebrate Buddho Purnima and the Christians Christmas.
These are
just a few of the religious festivals and feasts that Bangladeshis
celebrate in
their day to day life.
Several other
themes, including love themes. Most prevalent of folk songs and music
traditions include Bhatiali,
Baul, Marfati,
Murshidi,
and Bhawaiya.
Lyricists like Lalon
Shah, Hason Raja,
Kangal Harinath, Romesh Shill, Abbas Uddin, and many
unknown anonymous lyricists have enriched the tradition of folk songs of
Bangladesh. In relatively modern context, Rabindra Sangeet and Nazrul Geeti
form precious cultural heritage of Bangladesh. In recent time, western
influences have given rise to several quality rock bands, particularly
in urban
centers like Dhaka. Several musical instruments, some of them of
indigenous
origin, are used in Bangladesh, and major musical instruments used are
the bamboo
flute (banshi), drums (dhol), a single stringed instrument
named ektara,
a four stringed instrument called dotara,
and a pair of metal bawls used for rhythm effect called mandira
, are
important in the culture of Bangladesh.
