Inspired by the globally renowned Burning Man Festival held in the Black Rock City of Nevada, USA, the Burning Crab Festival has commenced at the eco-friendly Mermaid Beach Resort in Cox’s Bazar.
This three-day celebration of music, art, and nature began on Wednesday, January 29, and will run until January 31.
The grand opening took place in the evening at Mermaid Beach Resort, where the entire festival venue has been transformed into a dazzling artistic landscape under the creative direction of Jirro Endo, a renowned Japanese festival architect and lighting designer.
The festival grounds are already bustling with international tourists and visitors.
The first day features performances across five stages, showcasing an eclectic mix of DJ sets, traditional Mro and Rakhine dances, and soulful Baul music. Additionally, several food stalls offer a variety of delectable local delicacies, adding to the festival’s vibrant atmosphere.
Speaking about the festival, Lutfur Rahman Kajol, the former MP for Cox’s Bazar-3 and BNP’s Central Fisheries Affairs Secretary, praised the event’s international standards. He remarked, “This is Bangladesh’s first truly multi-cultural festival of this scale. It has the potential to greatly enhance the country’s tourism industry.”
According to the organizers, the festival features world-class performances by renowned musicians from Japan, Thailand, the UK, Vietnam, Argentina, and Russia, creating a spectacular fusion of global sounds.
The festival’s immersive experiences include Five visually stunning performance stages, A moonboat light show, Fire shows, Seafood meditation sessions, Yoga sessions, Art therapy and workshops.
Additionally, visitors can explore the World Food Market, Floating Market, Fashion Market, and participate in engaging talk sessions with industry experts and cultural influencers.
Samiha Alam Bristy, one of the festival’s key organizers, shared her excitement:
“For the first time, Bangladesh is hosting such a unique festival. Visitors from around the world have gathered here to witness this event. We wanted to present a fresh, new Bangladesh through this celebration.”
With its blend of music, art, astrtronomy, and cultural heritage, the Burning Crab Festival is set to become a landmark event in Bangladesh’s festival calendar, promising an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
By Abdur Rashid Manik
Photo: Abdur Rashid Manik
