As part of the ‘Hridoye Dhaka 416’ festival, a colourful rally was organised by Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) to showcase Dhaka’s rich history, heritage and culture to the new generation.

With the spontaneous participation of thousands of people, the procession started from Laxmi Bazar in Old Dhaka and ended at Nagar Bhaban after circumambulating various roads.

​Dhaka’s archaeological sites, traditional culture, food, vehicles and various aspects of city life were depicted on a large canvas in this festive procession. The portraits of the displayed structures included Lalbagh Fort, Ahsan Manzil, Baitul Mukarram National Mosque, Central Shaheed Minar, Lalkuti, Tara Mosque, Dhakeshwari Temple, Buddhist Temple and the traditional Dhaka Gate.

The special attraction of the procession was the portrayal of historical figures who contributed to the establishment and development of Dhaka. The participants dressed in the likenesses of historical characters like Queen Victoria, Nawab Khwaja Ahsanullah, Nila Rag (Roy), Nicholas Pogoz, Jinnahbai and Paribibi brought the past history of the city to life.

In addition, the traditional food culture of Old Dhaka, Bakarkhani, Nanna Biryani, portraits of Beauty Lachchi and the exhibition of steamers, horse-drawn carriages and palanquins, reminiscent of the past transportation system, fascinated the city dwellers.

​After the procession at Nagar Bhaban, the DSCC administrator told the media, "This is our event to awaken the love, compassion and sense of responsibility of the citizens towards Dhaka. We have started the month-long 'Hridoye Dhaka 416' festival to showcase the history and tradition of Dhaka to the city dwellers and the world. On behalf of DSCC, I express my sincere gratitude for the spontaneous participation of the city dwellers in this event."

The entire old Dhaka turned into a lively festival with the joy and enthusiasm of people of all ages gathered on both sides of the road and the youth and children and teenagers participating in colorful costumes.