Shishu Mela: Where has the wonder wandered off to?
To reclaim the lost allure and weave a new chapter in the legacy of the Shishu Mela, the park must embark on a transformative journey, one that emphasises modernisation, inclusivity, and accessibility
Among all astir in the capital's Shyamoli area, there is an amusement park that gets almost buried by the bustling busyness of everyday life - the DNCC Wonderland, also known as Shishu Mela.
Established in 1994, the place evokes a wave of nostalgia as we reminisce about golden days spent with our loved ones.
Shishu Mela, a resplendent haven of laughter and play, has etched itself into the memories of families, creating a treasured legacy that has stood the test of time.
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But as we stand amidst the twinkling lights and merry melodies of the Shishu Mela today, one question lingers in the air like a whisper - "Where has the wonder wandered off to?"
The answer lies not only within the confines of this whimsical wonderland but also in the reflections of our past and the aspirations of our future.
While Shishu Park holds a special place as the nation's inaugural amusement park, captivating the hearts of children and families alike; its gates have been closed since January 2019, with the promise of a modern transformation on the horizon.
Regrettably, the anticipated progress has yet to materialise, leaving the park in a state of disrepair. The prolonged closure has been a profound disappointment for residents yearning for its revival, while the authorities remain silent on the fate of this cherished landmark.
The establishment of the Shishu Park and the subsequent recognition of amusement parks as vital public spaces can be traced back to 1985 when the Public Work Ministry transferred control of these recreational havens to the Dhaka City Corporation.
With the understanding that such spaces were essential for fostering community engagement and enabling children to partake in outdoor activities, the city corporation embraced the concept of amusement parks with open arms.
However, the demand for these joyful retreats surpassed what a single government-owned park could accommodate. Thus, the decision to lease the Shishu Mela to Via Media Limited was taken, expanding opportunities for the masses, both within Dhaka and beyond its borders, to indulge in the glees that amusement parks offer.
Unfortunately, due to issues like illegal operations without payment and extended leasing duration, Shishu Mela met its closure in November 2016. After months spent resolving the situation, the city corporation finally breathed new life into it under the name "DNCC Wonderland."
While laughter and excitement still ornate the walls of the DNCC Wonderland, a poignant change has swept over the landscape. Gone are the days of teeming crowds of enthusiastic children eagerly awaiting their turn on the carousel or the Ferris wheel.
Strolling through this once vibrant wonderland, memories of yesteryears will flood back – memories of standing in line for tickets, savouring delicious treats such as candy floss from food stalls, and purchasing colourful masks and bubble blowers from cheerful hawkers stationed outside the park.
The transformation of the amusement park experience is emblematic of a larger societal shift. An era that ensued is where children immerse themselves in virtual realms, foregoing the invigorating charm of outdoor entertainment. Regrettably, this can be detrimental to their mental and physical well-being, depriving them of the valuable benefits of physical activities and unbridled creativity.
In this paradigm shift, parents play an influential role. Where once they planned family outings to various parks, the modern urban landscape now often sees outdoor recreation confined to coffee house treats or dining. It is incumbent upon adults to rekindle the enchantment of riding a metallic horse or a roller coaster, encouraging their children to run free, embrace swings, and taste the essence of genuine childhood amusement.
The DNCC Wonderland, while still a joyful destination, grapples with limitations. Concerns over security, ride safety, and cleanliness tend to dampen the enthusiasm of parents, creating a barrier that dissuades them from sharing this joyous park with their children. This inadvertently results in a disparity among visitors, making the DNCC Wonderland a predominantly local attraction.
To reclaim the lost charm and weave a new chapter in the nostalgia of the Shishu Mela, the park has to embark on a transformative journey - one that emphasises modernisation, inclusivity, and accessibility. By addressing the concerns of parents and amplifying the enchantment of the park, Shishu Mela can appeal to people from diverse socio-demographic backgrounds.
As the sun sets on my visit to the DNCC Wonderland, I left with hope in my heart.
The journey back to reclaim wonder may prove to be an arduous one, but the promise of a revitalised and resplendent Shishu Mela lingers.
For in the journey to find where wonder has wandered off to, one might just rediscover themselves.
Edited by: Tousef Islam & Nylah Shah.
