Photo: BSS

BANDARBAN, April 13, 2026 (BSS) - The four-day Sangrain festival, one of the most important cultural celebrations of the Marma community, officially began today in Bandarban with excitement and vibrant festivities marking the farewell to the old year and the welcome of the new year.

The programme kicked off Monday morning with a colorful procession that started from Rajar Math. The event was inaugurated by Saching Prue Jeri, Member of Parliament for Bandarban.

Speaking at the event, Jeri described Bandarban as a “mini hill tract,” highlighting the harmonious coexistence of diverse ethnic communities in the region. He expressed hope that the Sangrain festival would gain wider national recognition in the future and contribute to the district’s prosperity.

The procession featured enthusiastic participation from people of all ages representing at least 11 ethnic communities, including Marma, Tripura, Murang, and Bam. Participants dressed in traditional attire paraded through the main streets of the town before concluding at the Bandarban Minor Ethnic Group Cultural Institute.

Following the procession, attendees took part in a traditional “elderly puja,” praying for peace, happiness, and well-being.

According to organizers, the festival will continue with a series of cultural and religious activities. On Tuesday, a Buddha bathing ceremony will be held, beginning with a procession from Rajguru Buddhist Vihara and concluding at Ujani Para Kheya Ghat. In the evening, neighborhood-based pitha festivals will take place.

The final two days of the festival, April 15 and 16, will feature a variety of cultural programs, including Maitree water pouring, traditional folk games, oiled bamboo climbing, prize distributions, and performances of Sangrain songs and dances.

The Sangrain festival reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Marma community and remains a symbol of unity and celebration among the ethnic groups of the region.