Amidst the trials and tribulations faced by those embarking on journeys to their hometowns for the Eid celebrations, the true essence of bliss unfolds for the little ones. The Eid trip presents an opportunity for children to taste the sweet liberation of their village, breaking free from the confines of urban life.
Although this enchanting experience lasts only a few days, the memories of celebrating Eid with beloved family members etch themselves deeply in their young lives. Their Eid vacation transpires like a splendid dream, immersed in the love and merriment of relatives within the festive ambiance.
With schools closed for an extended period during Eid-ul-Azha, our reporter had the chance to converse with some children eagerly anticipating their journeys home to celebrate. One such young traveler, Tamim, accompanied by his brother and uncle at Kamalapur railway station, was eagerly awaiting the train that will take him on his dream Eid adventure.
“To me, Eid is all about rejoicing together,” exclaimed the third grader, beaming with anticipation.
“Now that the exams are over, I will venture to the village for Eid celebrations. Traveling by train is more enjoyable than by bus, although delays in the train schedule can be quite frustrating,” he added.
However, Tamim expressed hope that the journey would proceed smoothly without any delays.
At the same station, Jim, a seventh-grader, prepared to embark on a trip to Sirajganj with his aunt and sister. While waiting for the train, he shared with the Dhaka Tribune that the reopening of school on July 6 signals a long vacation indeed.
“For me, Eid is synonymous with fun and joy. I have numerous friends back home in the village, and I look forward to playing with them throughout the holiday,” Jim said, his eyes shimmering with excitement.
His sister, Mim, mirrored the same radiance in her eyes, emphasizing the unique thrill of venturing to the village for Eid after completing exams. Although their parents are currently in Dhaka, they too will join the family after wrapping up their office commitments.
Meanwhile, Mobashshira patiently waited for a bus that would transport her to Rangpur. Accompanied by her parents at Mohakhali bus terminal, she shared her preference for bus travel. With exams behind her, she planned to enjoy the Eid holiday without the need to study.
“I am going to my grandfather's house in Rangpur by bus. I will spend the entire day with my grandfather on Eid,” Mobashshira said.
Six-year-old Asif, perched on his father's lap, embarked on a journey to his grandfather's house in Mymensingh. He whispered: “My grandfather's house is filled with uncles and aunts. I am going to celebrate Eid with everyone. I adore train journeys, but since we couldn't secure tickets, we are traveling by bus.”
Another child, Ishtiaq, awaited departure at Mohakhali bus terminal and eagerly shared his plans.
“I will head to our village home and revel in playing with my friends. I cherish both buses and trains immensely. During the Eid holidays, I will indulge in pure enjoyment without focusing on studies,” he said, scarcely able to contain his excitement.
Meanwhile, young Abdullah, accompanied by his mother, busied himself buying fruits in front of a launch bound for Chandpur. In conversation with the reporter, he joyfully described the commencement of the Eid vacation as school closed its doors.
“I am heading to our village house in Chandpur. The happiness brims within me as I purchase food for everyone in the house. I adore holidays, and the village holds a charm that surpasses the city. After the vacation, I find myself shedding tears every time we return to Dhaka,” he said, his voice resonating with heartfelt longing.
