DECIPHERING THE DESHI CHRISTMAS

As a kid, I loved everything Christmas themed. Books, movies, cartoons, etc. “Home Alone” was on repeat in the weekends and an imaginary snowman used to be my bestie. Yeah okay, no eye-rolling, please.

Growing up, I struggled to come to terms with how Christmas was really like in Bangladesh. There was no snow and Christmas trees were hardly seen around.

The Christian community in Bangladesh represents a relatively small percentage of the population. Some families are so closely knitted that the celebrations are often restricted among the near ones and some tend to have their ways and styles overshadowed by the more popular traditions. We went around and asked some individuals what they did on Christmas. They all talked about good food, albeit not what we see on TV or magazines.

Nidhi D'Costa, studying at North South University, recalls the festivity of Christmas with great enthusiasm. She says, “The most important attraction is perhaps decorating the Christmas tree. I love baking cakes too. Surprisingly, the Christmas Eve is packed with more fun activities than the next day. We visit our neighbours' and relatives' homes and sing carols. With the funds raised, we buy ourselves goodies or arrange a picnic on the Christmas day. We also visit the church on Christmas Eve and take part in the choir competition. And oh, did I tell you? New clothes are a must.”

Susan Andrea Gomes, now studying in Shillong, India says that she misses Christmas back home where it was all about welcoming baby Jesus, good food, Christmas carols and loads of chocolates.

Akash Rozario, a teenager, doesn't want to miss out on what's trending. “I go out in the evening with friends. Obviously places like Westin are a top choice. Probably, later we go and grab some ice cream in the cold. I also invite my friends to my place for dinner just like I visit their places on Eid.”

No matter how Christmas is celebrated elsewhere, some basic things stay the same. It's a national holiday which means a day to sit back and enjoy warm drinks with the loved ones. The spirit of sharing and bonding remains the same regardless.