Pabna, Aug 05 (V7N) — Students and cultural performers at Government Edward College in Pabna organised a unique cultural festival celebrating Bangladesh's traditional doll heritage, bringing childhood memories and folk traditions to life through music, exhibitions and performances.
The event, titled "Putul Prohor" (Doll Hour), was organised under the theme "Let childhood memories come alive through doll play." It took place at the college's central field and was open to visitors of all ages.
Arranged by the college's Literature and Cultural Centre, the festival aimed to introduce younger generations to Bangladesh's rich folk traditions and the country's long-standing doll-making culture.
The programme featured exhibitions of traditional handmade dolls, presentations on the history of dolls in Bengali culture, folk music, dance performances and interactive storytelling about the role of dolls in rural life.
Participants and visitors attended the festival wearing traditional Bangladeshi attire, including sarees and panjabis, creating a festive atmosphere that reflected the country's cultural heritage.
Although heavy rain interrupted the programme, organisers and performers continued the celebrations outdoors, singing and dancing in the rain. The unexpected weather became one of the event's most memorable moments, drawing enthusiastic applause from spectators.
One of the festival's highlights was a theatrical presentation of a traditional Bengali wedding using dolls. The performance recreated various ceremonial stages, including the bride-viewing, turmeric ceremony and wedding celebration, offering visitors a glimpse into traditional customs in a creative and engaging format.
The programme concluded with sweets and traditional refreshments served to participants and guests.
Visitor Hasan Mahmud said the event reminded him of his childhood and praised the organisers for promoting Bangladesh's folk heritage through an innovative cultural initiative.
Another visitor, Ariful Islam, who attended with his young child, said the festival provided an excellent opportunity for children to experience a tradition that is gradually disappearing in today's technology-driven world.
Parent Sarwar Morshed said he brought his daughter to introduce her to Bangladesh's traditional doll culture, describing the initiative as both educational and inspiring.
Organiser Purnam Pragya, a music and dance performer at the college's Literature and Cultural Centre, said the festival was designed to revive a cherished part of Bengali childhood.
"Many children today have little or no connection with traditional doll games. Through this event, we wanted to preserve an important part of our cultural heritage and introduce it to a new generation," she said.
The organisers expressed hope that Putul Prohor would become a regular cultural event promoting Bangladesh's traditional arts, folklore and childhood heritage.
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