Rangpur:The traditional 'Nabanna' festival continues to hold great significance in rural Bengal, symbolizing prosperity and fostering deep connections among farmers, their families, and the broader community. Celebrated during the harvest of the Aman rice crop, the festival involves preparing and sharing a variety of dishes using newly-harvested rice.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, rural farmers in Bengal mark this occasion by making dishes such as 'pitha', 'puli', and 'payesh', using rice flour produced from traditional methods. The festival has been a unifying force between rural and urban Bengal for centuries.
During 'Nabanna', traditional tools like 'Urun-Gain' and 'Dhenki' are employed to prepare the rice flour. A 'Dhenki' is a foot-powered wooden machine used for peeling rice husks, while an 'Urun' is crafted from a tree trunk, with a 'Gain' rod used to maintain the nutritional value of the rice. These tools remain popular among village women for making rice flour and grinding spices.
Professor Tuhin Wadud of Begum Rokeya University highlights the cultural activities that accompany the festival. He notes that new family members often visit during 'Nabanna' to renew relationships and partake in the festivities. Senior teacher Alhaj Isahaque Ali shares that farmers invite relatives to enjoy the traditional sweets and dishes made from the new rice.
Professor Mohammad Shah Alam emphasizes 'Nabanna' as a vibrant celebration of the Aman rice harvest, representing the rich tradition and culture of Bangladesh. Despite the fading of some cultural elements like folk music and dance, the culinary traditions remain strong.
Krishibid Md Saiful Islam, of the Department of Agricultural Extension, and Krishibid Dr Md Mamunur Rashid, a consultant for the Rupantar Project, both note the economic and social activities surrounding the festival, including rural fairs and the communal preparation of traditional foods, which strengthen community bonds and celebrate future prosperity.