By Ananta Yusuf and Khalid Hussain Ayon
Jan 21 2018 (The Daily Star, Bangladesh)

Have you ever seen Dhaka’s sky flooded with kites, lights and fireworks?

This year the celebration of Poush Sankranti (the end of Bengali month Poush) popularly known as Shakrain or Ghuri Utshob brings life to the most congested part of the Old Dhaka.

In recent times, apart from colourful kites flying in the sky, people are also entertained by fire-spinners and flame-eaters who also gather on rooftops to demonstrate their skills.

To know more watch our Star Live video on Shakrain.

This story was originally published by The Daily Star, Bangladesh

By Khalid Hussain Ayon
Aug 11 2016 (The Daily Star, Bangladesh)

With the advent of the digital printing press, Riskshaw painting a previously well known art form is on the verge of extinction. Many painters had to switch their profession to survive the “digital revolution”.

few of them continue to endure the struggle and have managed to keep the art form alive. Rickshaw painters Rafiqul Islam and Sayed Ahmed are among one of the artisans.

They have participated in different international exhibitions and have received national and international recognition. But they say, the demand along with prices are in steep decline.

“My work was exhibited and sold in many countries like, Germany, England, Italy, Japan, Russia and Canada among others. But in my own country the demand continues to fall every day,” said Rafiqul Islam.

Strangely, the unique art form now survives with the help and financial support of foreign art enthusiasts.

This story was originally published by The Daily Star, Bangladesh