As the afternoon light fades, the grounds of the Sri Sri Lokenath Brahmachari Ashram in Barodi, Sonargaon, begin to fill with devotees.
Men and women sit in rows, arranging earthen lamps, flowers, incense sticks, and offerings before them. Some have travelled from distant parts of the country, carrying little more than their prayers and hopes.
This is Rakher Upobash, one of the distinctive religious observances of Bangladesh’s Hindu community.
Also known as Kartik Brata, Gosaiyer Upobash, and Ghrita Pradip Prajjwalan, the ritual is particularly significant at the Barodi ashram in Narayanganj.
Observed on Tuesdays and Saturdays during the final fortnight of the Bengali month of Kartik, the tradition centres on fasting, devotion, and the lighting of ghee lamps.
Devotees abstain from food throughout the day before gathering at sunset to offer prayers for the health, safety, and well-being of their family members and loved ones.
The practice is closely associated with Baba Lokenath Brahmachari, the revered Hindu spiritual figure whose teachings continue to draw followers to Barodi.
According to popular belief, he encouraged devotees to observe the Kartik fast and light lamps and incense at the ashram as a prayer for protection against diseases and misfortune.
As sunset approaches, the quiet gathering transforms into a spectacle of light. Small flames flicker across rows of lamps, illuminating the faces of worshippers immersed in prayer.
Each lamp represents a personal wish, often dedicated to someone whose well-being remains close to the devotee’s heart.
The ritual continues in silence and contemplation. Once the prayers are completed and the lamps burn down, devotees break their fast, traditionally receiving prasad.
Beyond its religious significance, Rakher Upobash offers a glimpse into Bangladesh’s living spiritual heritage.
Passed down through generations, the observance brings together faith, family bonds, and community devotion in a shared act of hope.
As hundreds of flames illuminate the evening in Barodi, the message behind the ritual remains deeply personal: a prayer that those they love may remain safe.
