Dhaka Thursday April 14, 2011, Baishakh 1, 1418


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Celebrating -- with a caveat

ANIKA HOSSAIN


Photo: Zahedul I Khan

New year celebrations are always fun. Whether it's December 31 or Pahela Baishakh (April 14), we Bengalis are always up for a good time. By the beginning of April, almost everyone is geared up with their red and white Pahela Baishakh outfits and ready to roll. Despite the hot weather, there will be people teeming on the streets, on their way to Ramna Park to listen to Rabindra Sangeet, to Dhaka University to see the rallies and festivities on the campus or to one of the many fairs being held in honour of the occasion all over the city. All we need is a reason to celebrate and we never hesitate to go all out.

However, times have changed; Pahela Baishakh isn't what it once used to be. Large gatherings are not always safe and this concern should not be overlooked amidst all the gaiety. Not to be a killjoy when all everyone is thinking about is having panta bhaat on the streets, but safety should be everyone's first priority so that a fun day out is not spoiled by something unpleasant.

There are a few basic precautions everyone should take when heading out for the day. The first concern that comes to mind when thinking of a big crowded place in Dhaka is pickpockets. For them, this occasion will be like a third Eid if you don't put your wallets away in a safe place. Make sure you don't place them in your back pockets, and check on them from time to time. Women should be careful with their purses and should carry ones that have zippers or even small locks on them. Don't carry a purse if you don't need to and make sure you don't carry much cash. Only take what you need, no need to be burdened unnecessarily with a large, heavy bag.

If you're taking your child out with you, make sure you keep and eye on him/her at all times. If you have very small children, say under the age of ten, you don't really have to take them with you if you can leave them at home with someone you trust. There really isn't much for a child that young to see or understand at these celebrations; there will be plenty of time to teach them about their culture; safety comes first. Yes, there are the fun rides, but you can always take them to an amusement park another day when you won't be distracted.

Then there are those occasional stampedes you have to worry about. In the event of a stampede, make sure you don't panic. Don't lose the people you came with, find a safe spot and stay there. If you try to run away, there are chances, you will fall, get trampled on and injure yourself. Staying calm and making sure everyone with you is safe is the best way to go. If you want to help others in the crowd, you might want to make sure you and everyone in your group will not be harmed in the process of doing so.

Women must be extra vigilant during the festivities, to avoid perverts who may try to grope you and disappear into the crowd. It's best to go out with a large group of people on such occasions. Carry your cell phones with you, just in case of emergencies. Don't take a really expensive set, but they're useful if you find yourself lost in the huge crowd.

The food on the streets might look mouthwateringly delicious, but you won't think so when you spend the next few days recovering in the toilet. Be careful about what you eat, make sure it's prepared hygienically, better yet, eat delectable home cooked food; you won't regret it.

I think I've rained enough on your parade for now. Those were the basic precautions I considered my duty (paranoia) to share with you. Hopefully this will help make your Pahela Baishakh celebration a little more secure and pleasant. Now go have fun! Shubho Nababarsha!


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