The traditional Sangrai water festival of the Marma community concluded this year’s New Year celebrations in Rangamati, as the hill town was filled with vibrant festivities and a spirit of unity. Members of both indigenous hill communities and Bengali residents joined the colorful event, which turned into a large celebration of cultural harmony.
The main program was held on Friday at 11:00 am at Chinghla Mong Chowdhury Mari Stadium, organized by the Marma Cultural Organization (MACO).
Speaking as the chief guest, Hill Tracts Affairs Minister Dipen Dewan, MP, said the government is working to ensure balanced development across the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
He stressed the importance of preserving the traditions, heritage, and cultural identity of the region’s 13 ethnic communities, noting that some groups face risks of cultural erosion.
He added that the ministry would take necessary steps to support the preservation of their heritage.
State Minister for Hill Tracts Affairs Barrister Mir Mohammad Helal Uddin, MP, attended the event as a guest of honor. He said that Bangladesh’s true strength lies in embracing and respecting all cultures regardless of religion or ethnicity.
He added that the festival has become a gathering place for all communities and a reflection of the country’s cultural diversity.
Festival committee convener Paiching Mong Marma said the purpose of the Sangrai water festival is to wash away the sorrows of the past year and welcome the new year with renewed harmony and social bonds.
As the afternoon sun lit up the hills of Rangamati, the celebration came alive with traditional Marma songs and dances performed on stage.
The highlight of the festival, known as “Jolkeli” or water play, saw participants in colorful attire joyfully splashing water on one another. According to Marma belief, the ritual symbolizes the cleansing of misfortunes from the past year.
People of all ages took part in the festivities, turning the event into a large cultural gathering. Organizers said Sangrai is not only a Marma New Year celebration but also a powerful medium for promoting unity and harmony among hill and plain communities.
The festival once again underscored its role as a bridge of friendship and cultural coexistence in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
