The lyrical wheels of rickshaw

Asma-ul-husna

'Rickshaws and rickshaw paintings in Dhaka have recently made it to the list of humanity's intangible cultural heritage by Unesco. The Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage inscribed it as Bangladesh's fifth addition to that list. But what aspects set rickshaws apart as a symbol of our country's intangible cultural heritage?

Rickshaw, a hand-pulled vehicle moving through the busy streets of Dhaka, is what truly holds the city's spirit. The moving wheels of a rickshaw represent the true spirit of urban dwellers, always in motion.

Rickshaw painting, on the other hand, stands out as a unique form of art, and with its vivid colours and bold brush strokes, it reflects the cultural richness of our country. Often painted with the faces of renowned Bangladeshi actors like Shabana, Shakib Khan, Shabnur, or Salman Shah. It also features the majestic Royal Bengal tiger or simply a landscape portraying the scenic beauty of Bangladesh. One thing unites all rickshaw artworks: they profoundly capture the very core of Bangla culture.

Whether someone craves a midnight outing with a friend or desires some quality time alone, there's no better choice than a rickshaw. The rhythmic pace, the subtle breeze behind your ears-these are the small yet not-at-all insignificant joys that private transport can never provide. Some might argue that a rickshaw offers a more premium transportation experience than any private vehicle.

The perfect 'Bangla' date must also include a rickshaw ride. In every romantic drama series or movie set in an urban area, there's never a miss - a sequence where characters share a rickshaw ride with their love interest. Young couples in traditional outfits roam through the city in rickshaws, and suddenly, the city's chaos and restlessness don't seem so exhausting.

The rickshaw is undoubtedly the best way to explore a new place. Stepping outside and putting all your faith in the rickshaw puller is such an exciting experience.

"Rickshaw rides are the best way to explore a new place. Going out with friends, all of us squeezing into one rickshaw, and heading to unknown places to try their signature food-these are surely some of the most unforgettable memories I've made in my life," shared Fahim Montasir, a 21 years old Kishoreganj resident.

"Stepping into an unknown place on a rickshaw with a Google map and hoping that the rickshaw-wala mama knows what he's doing is such a thrilling experience. And the conversations that you have with him are the best part. Most of the time, you don't understand what he's saying as you are sitting at the back, but you nod along anyway," he added.

A rickshaw ride in the rain has a whole different level of charm. The sound of a drizzle on the hood, a protective polythene sheet shielding riders from the rain, adds an element of cosy charm. Sure, it can get a little messy, yet many people like to take rickshaws just to enjoy the rain.

Shvor Saif, a journalist from a national news daily, is an avid fan of rain bathing who, even if there are other options available, chooses a rickshaw to enjoy the rain. "It's a kind of fantasy that I get to satisfy often during the rainy season, especially after a tiring day at the office. I keep the hood open and feel each drop of rain on me while my rickshaw moves through the streets with rhythmic splashes."

The rickshaw is commonly used for short distances, but many people also choose it for longer journeys, simply for the joy of the ride. The experience becomes even more delightful with the right company-whether it's a friend, a lover, or maybe just your mother. There's nothing quite like having those long conversations with the right person.

Many people, particularly women, prefer rickshaws to public transportation because they are more comfortable. "Rickshaw has been a much more convenient choice for me than any other public transportation. Public transportation is always crowded, which makes me uncomfortable. And, to be honest, as a woman, I don't feel secure using any type of public transportation in Dhaka," remarked Firuz Nawer, a Dhaka resident. "The rickshaw is easily available and hassle-free; I prefer it. Even though it costs more compared to public transport, it's still a better option for me," she added.

Rickshaws are what make Dhaka, Dhaka. It is more than a source of transportation, as it captures the essence of the city and its people. And not just in Dhaka; the appeal of rickshaws remains consistent throughout the country.

Over time, the rickshaw has evolved into an iconic symbol of Bangla culture, becoming a mode of transportation and a canvas reflecting the rich and intricate history of the nation's heritage. The aesthetic appeal of rickshaws extends beyond the streets, with miniature rickshaws becoming sought-after souvenirs available in fancy stores and gift shops, serving as tangible representations of Bangladesh's cultural identity. [email protected]