Thousands of people congregated in Gendalatari village in Majhapara of Lalmonirhat Sadar upazila today to celebrate the traditional Charak festival and fair, marking Chaitra Sankranti — the last day of the Bengali year.

With the Bangla year coming to an end, the Charak festival in Lalmonirhat and other parts of Rangpur region once again showcases a unique blend of devotion, tradition, and communal harmony, drawing people together in celebration.

According to the traditional calendar, Chaitra 31 fell on Tuesday this year, bringing with it the vibrant observance of Charak Puja, one of the most significant religious folk festivals of the Hindu community.

On this occasion, similar festivities are being held across different parts of Rangpur region.

In Gendalatari, the festival — believed to be over a century old — has become a cherished tradition deeply rooted in local culture.

“This festival has been celebrated here for nearly 100 years. It is an integral part of our heritage,” said Mantu Chandra Roy, president of the Charak Festival Celebration Committee.

He emphasised that although Charak Puja is a Hindu ritual, the festival has evolved into a symbol of communal harmony. “People from different religious backgrounds come together to organise and enjoy the event. It reflects the spirit of coexistence in our society,” he added.

One of the most striking attractions of the festival is the daring ritual known as Charak Swing. Defying physical risk, devotees perform acts of penance as part of their spiritual devotion.

Among them was 48-year-old Subodh Chandra Barman, who performed the traditional ritual. Subodh had two iron hooks pierced into his back and tied to a long rope suspended from a charak tree and swang around the wood pole in a dramatic display that is believed to ward off evil forces and bring blessings.

“I have been performing this ritual for the past 30 years, and thankfully, no accidents have occurred,” said Subodh, expressing his unwavering faith.

A devotee, Muhin Roy, 40, described the festive atmosphere, saying, “During the Charak Puja, one participant dances wearing a mask of Goddess Kali, while others perform the hook-swing ritual.

"It draws large crowds, including many from the Muslim community, who come to witness and enjoy the spectacle.”

He added that Hindu devotees offer prayers seeking divine blessings, while the fair surrounding the festival creates a lively environment filled with entertainment and social interaction.

Hiralal Roy, president of the Lalmonirhat District Puja Udjapan Parishad, said that devotees pray to Lord Shiva and Goddess Kali during the festival. “People of all ages from the Hindu community participate in the rituals. The Charak festival of Gendalatari is a long-standing tradition and an important cultural event for the region,” he noted.