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January 20th 2011

Published: January 20th 2011

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danithenomad

A lake in Dhaka

Things are getting really busy here in the subdivision of Uttara. Everyones gearing up for the huge Estema festival happening this weekend. Its an Islamic gathering of men from all over Bangladesh and the surrounding countries for prayer. Some describe it like a pilgrimage. It is taking place behind our university across the river, so from the roof you can see the tents that have been set up, they stretch further than the eye can see. 3 Million men are expected and this year they've broken it into 2 weekends and asked people from different regions to come on a specific weekend. There are tea and food stalls set up all over, and thousands of men here already. We're going to try to go to the train station tomorrow to watch the people arrive in packed trains! Check out youtube for some incredible videos from last year:

Last night the university held a reception for the nursing students from Vermont who have been here for 3 weeks and leave saturday. It was really amazing. Everyone dressed up in saris and looked absolutely stunning. The president of Bangladesh's advisor was here, as well as a minister from Nepal, and

Serenity in the city

of course Dr Miyan, the vice chancellor and founder of IUBAT. It was very formal, with lots of speeches and gifts being presented, followed by a some cultural performances. Afterwards we went to Dr. Miyan and his wife's home for a fantastic traditional Bangali meal. They were most gracious hosts and it was such a treat. The photos I think speak for themselves.

Also this weekend the university students organized a community health check up day where anyone could come in and receive basic assessments, there were also a few doctors there who could write prescriptions. It was pretty amazing to see how it was all put together. Many people showed up, but there was, however, some feedback that the students of other faculties got more attention that the community members who therefore felt a little neglected, which wasn't the goal of the clinic. Next year hopefully this will be taken into consideration.

So this weekend will be Estema, and next week Linda and I are hoping to go to Srimangal for a short holiday Tues-Saturday, which is close to Sylet. Its in the NE part of the country, and Bangladesh's tea capital. It is supposed to be

on the way to school

incredibly beautiful and relaxing. There also we will visit Lawachara National Park and hopefully get to see some of the local village tribes who live in the park. So far we have a reservation at a guest house but are having difficulty getting train tickets due to the Estema, so we will see. Inshallah as they say.

Love to everyone!

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