Disowning the severe cold weather of Dhaka, residents of Gulshan gathered together to further strengthen their bond with their neighbours in a street festival tilted "Paara Uthshob," to promote living in peace and harmony.
This initiative, for the very first time in Gulshan, was jointly organised by Gulshan Society and Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) in partnership with non-profit organization Heroes for All in Gulshan 2, Dhaka on Friday.
People of all ages, from teenagers to youngsters to senior members of the society, came down on the streets of Gulshan to enjoy home cooked food, various games and spent quality time with those who live next-door as well as their family members.
"City people are living a very autonomous life. They have become strangers to one another despite living in the same area," said Anish Zaman, a Gulshan Society member.
Echoing the same, Rehnuma Karim, founder of Heroes for All, said: "We have been living in a particular address for a long time, but we do not know much about those who live around us. Nobody is willing to talk with each other or have a friendly conversation.
"I believe this festival will play an important role in bringing people closer."
DNCC Mayor Md Atiqul Islam, the chief guest of the program, said: "Such an initiative brings people closer. We should always stand together in distress or happiness.
"We want to hold such festivals in other wards as well."
US Ambassador Earl Robert also attended the event as the special guest.
Abdur Rahman, a senior resident of Gulshan Society, recalling his childhood memories of going to fairs and festivals, said that the festival was a great initiative taken by Gulshan Society and urged the authorities concerned to continue this.
The festival started around 10am and ended around 10pm.
