The Raas Festival, a significant religious event for followers of the Sanatan faith, has commenced in the Palpara area of Khurushkul Union, Cox’s Bazar Sadar.
The five-day celebration, a tradition spanning 44 years, attracts tens of thousands of visitors annually.
The origins of the Raas Festival in Bengal trace back to Sri Chaitanyadeb, who is said to have popularized the event.
However, its widespread observance is believed to have gained momentum after the era of Raja Krishnachandra.
Primarily a Vaishnavite festival, Raas celebrates the divine love and harmony of Lord Krishna.
The central theme revolves around the worship of Radha and Krishna, portraying their mystical union with the Gopis.
The festival’s roots can also be found in ancient scriptures, though interpretations vary across different texts.
What makes the Raas Festival in Khurushkul truly unique is its inclusivity. It is a melting pot of cultures and faiths, drawing Hindus, Muslims, and Buddhists alike.
This harmony reflects the essence of Cox’s Bazar as a center of communal unity and coexistence.
By Rajin Saleh
Photo: Hussain Shetu
