The traditional Rash Mela at Dublar Char in the Sundarbans will not be held this year, marking the fifth consecutive year of suspension since 2021. However, a three-day programme featuring Rash Purnima Puja and the sacred ritual bath, known as Punya Snan, will be held from November 22 to 24 exclusively for followers of the Sanatan (Hindu) faith.
To ensure pilgrims’ safety, the Forest Department has designated five river routes to Dublar Char. Personnel from the Forest Department, police, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and Coast Guard will patrol the waterways during the programme.
Rezaul Karim Chowdhury, divisional forest officer of the Sundarbans East Division, confirmed that the fair would remain suspended this year. He said followers of the Sanatan faith could obtain entry passes and permits from the Forest Department to attend the religious ceremonies, provided they complied with all official instructions.
Entry passes will be issued for November 22–24 upon payment of prescribed fees, which will vary according to vessel type, number of passengers and duration of stay. Applicants must submit a photocopy of their national identity card (NID).
Pilgrims must begin their journey together from designated departure points during daylight hours on November 22 and return collectively on November 24. Independent travel will not be permitted.
Vessels will be allowed to operate only during daylight hours and may stop exclusively at designated Forest Department checkposts. Each vessel must carry an adequate number of life jackets or lifebuoys and clearly display its registration number and passenger count.
Pilgrims must retain their entry tokens throughout their stay and carry either their original NID or a certificate issued by their Union Parishad chairman. All vessels must report to the control room at Alorkol.
The carriage of firearms, explosives, hunting equipment, single-use plastics, loudspeakers and fireworks is strictly prohibited. Violations of the regulations may result in legal action.
Imran Ahmed, conservator of forests for the Sundarbans, said patrols had been intensified to prevent deer poaching during the period.
The Rash Mela was first introduced in 1923 by Sadhu Haribhajan. Although the traditional fair has remained suspended since 2021, the religious rituals have continued to take place annually.
