Eid celebrated amid fanfare, festivity in Rajshahi

Thousands of holidaymakers flocked to recreational spots across the district during the Eid-ul-Fitr holidays, with the Padma River char in Godagari and amusement parks among the main attractions.

A festive atmosphere prevailed as people from all walks of life, particularly youths and children in colourful attire, gathered to celebrate with family and friends, reports BSS.

Hundreds of thousands throng Padma char

The Padma River char (sandbar) in Godagari drew large crowds, offering a refreshing natural setting. The presence of children and young people added vibrancy, turning the riverside into a lively social gathering point.

Safina Park also saw a surge in visitors on the second and third days of Eid, with long queues at ticket counters from morning.

Eid holidaymakers throng Padma River char at Godagari upazila in Rajshahi on March 23. Photo: BSS

Shariful Islam, operations director of Safina Park, said all staff leave had been cancelled to ensure safety and smooth management, though turnout exceeded expectations.

Despite bad weather on Eid day, around 10,000 visitors came to the park. The number rose to nearly 50,000 the next day, while about 25,000 visited on the third day.

Meanwhile, receding waters of the Padma exposed a vast char in Godagari, which quickly became a popular destination. From afternoon to evening, the riverbank took on a festive look.

Visitors crossed the sandy stretch to reach the river, enjoying boat rides, taking photographs and spending time with their families amid the cool breeze.

The expansive char offers a unique natural landscape, attracting nature lovers, with many likening it to a “mini Cox’s Bazar” or “Kuakata”.

Local resident Shamsuzzaman Sojol said the newly emerged char had created a new space for recreation.

Despite adverse weather, crowds gathered along several kilometres of the riverbank, from in front of Godagari Model Police Station to Railway Bazaar, enjoying boating, photography and leisure on the sand.

A visitor, Niloy, said the char had become a new attraction. “We enjoyed a boat ride and spent time in the river. It was a wonderful experience,” he said.

Ahmed Shakil Hasmi, a teacher who returned home for the holidays, said the calm riverside offered a welcome escape from city life.

The char has opened up fresh prospects for tourism in Godagari, drawing thousands daily during Eid. Although it may submerge again during the monsoon, it has for now become a major attraction.

Padma riverside becomes centre of festivities

The Padma riverbank in Rajshahi became the focal point of celebrations as people spent their Eid holidays.

On Eid day and the following two days, a large influx of visitors was seen along the riverside, though numbers were lower on Eid day due to rain.

Parks and tourist spots across the city were lively with people of all ages, and even two days after Eid, entertainment centres continued to draw crowds.

Popular attractions such as Shaheed Zia Shishu Park, Borokuthi Padma Riverside, Simanto Nogor, Bhadra Shishu Park, Rajshahi Zoo and Central Park saw similar numbers of visitors.

However, the Padma riverbank stood out as an open space without entry fees, attracting large gatherings.

Padma riverbank has turned into the most popular amusement spot in Rajshahi. Photo: BSS 

Shabnur Islam, who came with his family from Sagorpara, said this year’s Eid felt different as he could celebrate with his family instead of staying in Dhaka for work. He said they went out together and the children were enjoying themselves.

Meanwhile, battery-powered rickshaw and auto-rickshaw drivers charged higher fares during Eid, causing inconvenience for commuters.

An official, Enamul Haque, said he stayed in Rajshahi this Eid and spent time at entertainment spots.

Traditional Eid fair lights up Bagha with festive spirit

The historic Eid fair in Bagha came alive with a festive atmosphere, drawing large crowds and showcasing a tradition preserved for centuries.

On Monday, Rajshahi Range Deputy Inspector General of Police Mohammad Shahajan visited the fair, which dates back nearly 500 years, and expressed satisfaction with its orderly arrangements. Bagha Police Station Officer-in-Charge Serajul Haque accompanied him.

Earlier, Abu Sayeed Chand, convener of Rajshahi district BNP, joined the main Eid congregation and exchanged greetings with worshippers.

Lease committee president Shafiqul Islam said the fair was now being conducted in a disciplined manner, with past irregularities such as gambling addressed. He thanked authorities and law enforcement for their cooperation.

The Bagha Mela, organised for 3 days from the day of Eid-ul-Fitr every year in the adjacent areas of the 500-year-old Bagha Mosque. Photo: BSS

Locals said the fair has long been an integral part of Eid celebrations in Bagha. Held from Eid day for about two weeks, it attracts visitors from nearby areas.

Key attractions include the shrine-centred Urs Mubarak, the historic Bagha Shahi Mosque, a museum, a large pond and the grand Eid congregation.

The fairgrounds feature entertainment such as circus shows, Ferris wheels, rides, motorcycle stunts known as the “wall of death”, magic shows and swings. Numerous stalls, particularly sweet shops and toy vendors, have further enlivened the atmosphere.

Organisers ensured a more disciplined and religious environment, allowing visitors to enjoy the tradition comfortably, earning praise for the role of the local administration.