Islamic Mobs Attack Bangladesh's Kite Festival Tradition

Islamic Mobs Attack Bangladesh's Kite Festival Tradition

On January 14, 2026, in Old Dhaka, angry Islamist groups tried to stop the Shakrain Kite Festival. They called it "un-Islamic" and told people to boycott it. Shakrain, or Poush Sankranti, is a fun Bengali festival with kite fights on rooftops, rice cakes, music, and gatherings. Everyone enjoys it, no matter their religion. Groups like mosque committees, madrasa students, and Jamaat-e-Islami marched in streets like Narinda and Gandaria. They handed out leaflets, shouted slogans, and used loudspeakers to threaten anyone flying kites, playing music, or dancing. They said it's "haram" (forbidden) and only for non-believers. This hurts Bangladesh's culture, which mixes Hindu and Bengali traditions. Hindus, about 8% of the people, fear violence and celebrated quietly. Police allowed kites but banned fireworks and loud music—giving in to the mobs. Footage video of Protest in this X tweet! Bangladesh peacefully community protest against Makar Sankranti Festival 🤦🏻 p…