Transformative Evenings in Dhaka During Ramadan
As the sun begins to set during the holy month of Ramadan, a fascinating transformation occurs in the bustling capital of Bangladesh, Dhaka. This sprawling city, home to over 10 million inhabitants, typically characterized by its frantic pace and congested roadways, experiences an unexpected stillness. The streets, usually alive with the sounds of honking horns and chattering crowds, become noticeably quiet and deserted.
However, for various political factions, this serene moment is a golden opportunity. They are acutely aware of the influential effect that a shared meal can have on people’s sentiments and alliances. The iftar gatherings, where Muslims break their fast at sunset, become focal points for political maneuvering during this sacred month. As Ramadan concluded last week, these events were observed closely, as they provided insights into the future political landscape of Bangladesh in the wake of the recent political upheaval that led to the ousting of the authoritarian regime last summer.
Political observers were particularly interested in the guest lists of these iftar parties: which party was hosting whom, and who was seated beside whom. In the current political climate marked by uncertainty, the answers to these seemingly simple questions held significant implications for potential new alliances and hinted at the shifting tides of geopolitical dynamics in the region.
To better understand the prevailing political climate, we managed to secure an invitation to one such iftar event. This particular gathering was held at an upscale rooftop restaurant by the Gono Odhikar Parishad, a relatively small political party that emerged from a wave of student protests back in 2018, prior to the larger protests that ultimately led to the downfall of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina last year.
Notably, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation as attendees discussed the recent political changes. The backdrop included images of protesters utilizing heavy machinery to dismantle the residence of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the nation’s former leader and the father of the ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, which occurred in Dhaka earlier this year.
Credit: Mahmud Hossain Opu/Associated Press
