‘Burning Crab Festival’ lights up Cox's Bazar beach
Tourists from 11 countries join the festival
Cox's Bazar is hosting its first-ever "Burning Crab Festival," a three-day event inspired by the renowned "Burning Man" festival of USA.
The festival, which began yesterday (29 January) has attracted foreign tourists from 11 countries and is showcasing the beauty and culture of the region. It will continue till 31 January at Mermaid Beach Resort.
Renowned Japanese festival architect and lighting designer Jiro Endo is serving as the festival's curator.
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The festival kicked off with a "Sunset and Moon Eating Party" at Pechar Dwip beach. Foreign artists performed on an egg-shaped stage as attendees danced and sang, enjoying the sunset and flying kites.
Jessia Islam, winner of the 2017 Miss Bangladesh pageant, expressed her enthusiasm for the festival, stating, "It adds a new dimension to Cox's Bazar and is crucial for promoting tourism."
She highlighted the unique combination of mountains and the world's longest beach, making it an ideal location for such international events.
Lizia Linka, a tourist from Russia, shared her excitement about attending the festival, her first visit to Bangladesh. She described the sunset and the atmosphere as fantastic.
Following the sunset, a cultural programme commenced on a crab-shaped stage. Performers from the Mro, Marma, Tripura, Chakma, and Rakhine communities showcased traditional dances, including umbrella, bottle, and plate dances, captivating the audience.
Lutfar Rahman Kajal, former MP of Cox's Bazar-3 constituency, attended the festival with his family.
Talking with The Business Standard, Kajal emphasised the importance of such events for tourism development in Cox's Bazar.
The festival has drawn participants from countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, Russia, Japan, Thailand, and Hungary, along with numerous young people from across Bangladesh.
In addition to the performances, the festival features diverse food stalls and a screening of the award-winning film "Boli, the Wrestler."
Festival organiser Samiha Alam Chowdhury Brishti said at least 400 people, including 110 foreign tourists, are participating in the event.
She emphasised the peaceful and enjoyable atmosphere and the festival's goal of promoting Cox's Bazar tourism globally.
Brishti also mentioned that fire shows and other activities are part of the programme, offering attendees unique and exciting experiences. Artwork, installations, and cultural exhibitions are also on display.
The organisers explained that the "Burning Man" festival of USA served as their inspiration, aiming to create an event that celebrates creativity, open expression, and freedom.
