04/04/2024
“Sangrai” is known as the water festival celebrated by the Marma communities of the Chittagong Hill Tracts. This fascinating journey takes deep into the colorful history, enchanting myths, and lively celebrations that make Sangrai so special.
With roots tracing back through generations, Sangrai serves as a symbolic marker of the transition into the new agricultural year; originating as a humble observance of the agricultural cycle, Sangrai has undergone significant evolution over the years, shaped by socio-economic changes, religious influences, and the passage of time. What began as a simple gathering to mark the commencement of the planting season has blossomed into a multifaceted extravaganza of rituals, festivities, and communal gatherings.
The Rakhines of Bangladesh and Myanmar also participate in and celebrate the festival and its rituals. This festival is very popular in Bandarban, and the content is produced with this context in mind. On a side note, Southeast Asian countries celebrate this festival under Thingyan, Songkran, and other names.
The Sangrai festival spans several days, each filled with unique activities and rituals.