‘Brother-in-law’ fair starting tomorrow

A "brother-in-law" fair is starting on Wednesday in Kurigram. Arranged by the Khalilganj Market Committee, the fair is scheduled to be held from January 22 to January 28.

The fair promises to offer: free healthcare, an exhibit on native fish species, awareness-raising against child marriage and dowry, exhibits and sales of native domesticated birds plus handcrafted products, sales of saplings of various plants, local sports tournaments, the establishment of a senior's club, and a cultural function to spread awareness against drugs, violence, and militancy.

The organisers claimed the word dulavai (brother-in-law) conjures up an image of a loving relationship between a man and his wife's siblings. Just like that relationship, they will try to ensure this fair persists as a humanitarian platform. They plan to help arrange weddings for men and women from impoverished families.

Local organizer Jahanur Rahman informed The Business Standard that undertaking the initiative to arrange such a fair has raised quite a stir in Kurigram.

"I think this fair will become a nice gathering place for brothers-in-law and their wives' siblings. Since there is also going to be an arrangement for marriages, it is a really good initiative."

Samiul Haque Nantu, the chairperson of Kurigram's Senior Citizen's Committee commented, "This fair is going to attract people of all ages. Aside from social obligations, people will come here to buy and sell things as well as admire the entertainment on offer."

Mostafizur Rahman Saju, the general secretary of the fair's organising committee stated, "Many fair traditions exist in our country. We wanted to host a fair in Kurigram. We will prioritize senior citizens at this fair, ensuring that there are ample arrangements for their entertainment."

"This fair will be held on a set date every year," proclaimed Ziaul Huda Simel, the convener of the fair's organizing committee.