Lal Kach Festival

As the month of Chaitra, the last in the Bangla year, draws to an end, the Hindu community comes together in a festival dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva and Parvati. The programme is locally known as “Lal Kach” (red glass). The central idea behind this programme is for a group of soldiers led by Shiva to appear on earth with a mission: ward off the forces of evil. These soldiers, glowing in the divine light of Shiva, march towards nearby temples. It is all part of a very long tradition going back hundreds of years. The Hindus, especially the young, paint themselves in red, take up swords, bring out processions and dance. The photos were taken in Dhaka and Munshiganj on April 13, the last day of Chaitra. 

Photo: Contribution of Monirul Alam