Last weekend I took a break from my "spring cleaning" (although it's winter here, it's spring temperatures) to take my friend and her son to the fair. Thinking we'd make a fairly quick getaway, I inwardly groaned when we discovered the circus would start in half an hours time. I decided that this was actually a cultural experience not to be missed. Bengali's of all times, wealthy, poor, Bhurka clad, sari wearing, young and old.
the circus began with some Bengali songs and I thought the two hours of high pitched singing would not be so bearable. then things began to pick up. Girls did cartwheels and flips dressed in tights and t shirts with bloomers. "little people"played clowns mimicking them (I guess it's more dignified than begging on the streets ...I don't know). a goat walked on planks. A woman threw knives at another spinning woman. a motorcycle went upside down within a large circular cage. Although missing the bearded lady, I'd guess pretty similar to circuses of hundred years ago. As usual it
was just fun to live in a place that is in so many ways like time travel to a simpler time with simpler pleasures. The grand finale was an elephant kicking a football. I think my nieces could actually come be Bengali circus stars with their gymnastic abilities but doubt it's a well payed career, and from what I understand, rather scandelous. Although the prestigious people watch the circus, they wouldn't accept the performers in
proper society.
Which is one of the painful things about living here, the hierarchy and the
societal limitations placed on groups of people. Still, a fun day, a fun time,
and a joy to see the young son of my friend (seen in the picture of my blog on my lap)
with eyes as big as saucers!
Friday, January 25, 2008
Pilgrimage
Above is a link for a pilgrimage under way in Bangladesh at the moment. Unfortunately it is the same weekend I chose to come to Dhaka for some meetings and to see some friends. We'll see if I'll be able to get home tomorrow. May be a long trip to get back the same time 3-5 million pilgrimage takers are heading out of Dhaka/Bangladesh. Wish me luck!
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