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Baisabi Festival in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, Bangladesh

The Baisabi Festival is one of the most vibrant and culturally significant celebrations for the indigenous communities of the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) in southeastern Bangladesh. Celebrated every April, Baisabi marks the traditional New Year for several ethnic groups including the Chakma, Marma, Tripura, and others, each of whom adds their own unique customs to the festivities. The name “Baisabi” is a blend of Boisu (Tripura), Sangrai (Marma), and Biju (Chakma) —the names of the New Year festivals observed by each group. Timing and Significance Baisabi is typically celebrated from April 12 to 14 , aligning with the solar New Year observed in many parts of South and Southeast Asia. It coincides with Pahela Baishakh , the Bengali New Year, but Baisabi is distinct in its deep-rooted tribal heritage, spiritual traditions, and emphasis on harmony with nature. This festival not only ushers in a new year but also marks the end of the old agricultural cycle and the beginning of a new on...
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Ramazan celebrations in Turkey

Ramadan (Ramazan in Turkish) is a significant religious and cultural event in Turkey, observed by millions of Muslims across the country. Although Turkey is a secular state, Islamic traditions, including fasting, prayer, and community gatherings, remain deeply rooted in Turkish society.

Fasting and Daily Routine

During Ramadan, practicing Muslims fast from imsak (pre-dawn) until iftar (sunset), refraining from eating, drinking, and other physical needs. The fast is broken with an evening meal called iftar, and before dawn, people eat sahur, a pre-fast meal to sustain them throughout the day.

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Iftar Traditions and Special Foods

Iftar in Turkey is a time for family and community gatherings, with special meals prepared for the occasion. Some of the most popular Ramadan foods include:

  • Ramazan pidesi – A soft, round bread sprinkled with sesame and nigella seeds, only baked during Ramadan.
  • Güllaç – A light dessert made with thin layers of dough, milk, rose water, and nuts.
  • Lentil soup – A common starter for iftar meals.
  • Kebabs and stews – Popular main courses, often served with rice or bulgur.
  • Sherbets – Traditional Ottoman-style fruit drinks, especially enjoyed during iftar.

Many restaurants offer special iftar menus, and in some cities, municipalities set up iftar tents to provide free meals for those in need.

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Ramadan Drummers

A unique tradition in Turkey is the Ramadan drummers (Ramazan davulcuları), who walk through neighborhoods before dawn, beating drums to wake people up for sahur. This tradition dates back to Ottoman times and is still practiced in smaller towns and neighborhoods.

Mosques and Night Prayers

During Ramadan, mosques in Turkey, especially famous ones like Süleymaniye Mosque and Blue Mosque in Istanbul, are filled with worshippers. Special Teraweeh prayers are held every night after the Isha prayer. Many mosques display mahya, illuminated messages strung between minarets, with phrases like "Welcome, O Ramadan" (Hoş geldin ya Şehr-i Ramazan).

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Charity and Giving

Charity is an important aspect of Ramadan. Many people give fitre (a required donation before Eid) and zakat (obligatory almsgiving) to help the less fortunate. Organizations, municipalities, and individuals contribute by distributing food and aid.

Eid al-Fitr (Ramazan Bayramı)

At the end of Ramadan, Turkey celebrates Eid al-Fitr, known as Ramazan Bayramı or Şeker Bayramı (Sugar Feast). The three-day holiday is marked by family visits, festive meals, and gift-giving. Children kiss the hands of elders and receive sweets or money. Traditional treats like baklava, Turkish delight (lokum), and chocolates are commonly enjoyed.

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Ramadan in Modern Turkey

In Turkey, Ramadan is observed in various ways. While many people fast, others continue their daily routines without fasting, especially in big cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. Restaurants and cafés remain open, but some cover their windows out of respect. Despite Turkey’s secular nature, Ramadan remains a deeply respected and cherished tradition.


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Baisabi Festival in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, Bangladesh

The Baisabi Festival is one of the most vibrant and culturally significant celebrations for the indigenous communities of the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) in southeastern Bangladesh. Celebrated every April, Baisabi marks the traditional New Year for several ethnic groups including the Chakma, Marma, Tripura, and others, each of whom adds their own unique customs to the festivities. The name “Baisabi” is a blend of Boisu (Tripura), Sangrai (Marma), and Biju (Chakma) —the names of the New Year festivals observed by each group. Timing and Significance Baisabi is typically celebrated from April 12 to 14 , aligning with the solar New Year observed in many parts of South and Southeast Asia. It coincides with Pahela Baishakh , the Bengali New Year, but Baisabi is distinct in its deep-rooted tribal heritage, spiritual traditions, and emphasis on harmony with nature. This festival not only ushers in a new year but also marks the end of the old agricultural cycle and the beginning of a new on...
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