A centuries-old market in Kishoreganj is once again alive with the sounds of traditional musical instruments as musicians from across the country gather ahead of the Durga Puja celebrations. This historic bazaar, now over 500 years old, draws dhakis (traditional drummers) and instrumentalists who come to offer their services during the festival season.
Starting on Monday (October 7) and continuing until Wednesday (October 9), the market is bustling with activity as puja committees evaluate the skills of the musicians, with contract prices determined by the performers’ expertise. Musicians from far and wide have come to showcase their talents, performing on instruments such as the dhak, dhol, kansar, sanai, banshi, and khanjri. The musicians are being hired for fees ranging from Tk 10,000 to Tk 200,000 depending on their proficiency and the demand.
Legend has it that this tradition dates back to the mid-16th century when local feudal lord Navaranga Raya, from Charipara village in Katiyadi, initiated Durga Puja celebrations in his palace. He would invite dhakis from across the region, particularly from Dhaka’s Bikrampur area, to perform at the festival. Over time, the gathering of musicians evolved into a vibrant marketplace, now known as Dhaka Haat.
Today, the market is a vital part of Bengali heritage, offering a festive environment where dhakis perform and secure contracts for puja performances. Musicians like Hari Raj from Nawabganj, who has been visiting this market for 30 years, come in hopes of earning enough to provide for their families. Nitai from Narsingdi has set a goal of Tk 25,000 this year, while Baran Das, also from Nawabganj, secured a contract worth Tk 1.2 lakh.
Puja organizers like Dipen Bhowmik from Kishoreganj come to the market to hire the best bands, as the rhythmic beats of the dhak are an essential part of the Durga Puja festivities. Without the drums, the worship feels incomplete, with the goddess requiring the harmony of rhythm and melody throughout the celebrations.
Local residents like Krishna Dhan Goswami, whose family has been involved in this tradition for centuries, play an active role in ensuring the musicians’ safety and well-being. “We have been working to protect and assist them for generations,” said Goswami.
Katiyadi Puja Parishad Secretary Johnny Kumar Saha highlighted the significance of this musical festival, noting that it has transcended religious boundaries, becoming a cultural event for people of all faiths. Around 600 dhakis visit this market annually, and those who don’t get hired receive assistance for their return journey.
Officer-in-Charge of Katiyadi Model Police Station Abdullah Al Mamun assured that security measures have been taken to protect the musicians and festival organizers, with a mobile police unit patrolling the market to ensure a safe and smooth celebration.