A journey to inner peace and well-being at Dhaka Flow’s ‘Warrior Within’ festival.
On the morning of February 13th, with the sun hiding behind the clouds and the air of spring weaving its way towards us, it was a perfect prelude to the transformative experience awaiting at Dhaka Flow’s ‘Warrior Within’ festival. Within the Airforce Base Camp in Agargaon, a sanctuary of well-being was taking shape, a vibrant community retreat dedicated to nurturing both the physical and spiritual self.
“Yoga transformed my life over the past 20 years, opening me to new experiences and communities,” shared Shazia Omar, also known as Shazzy Om, Founder of Dhaka Flow. “It fostered emotional resilience and aided in my recovery from grief and anxiety. Recognising the importance of meditation, breathwork, and mental health therapy, I founded Dhaka Flow to create a space where wellness seekers and promoters connect, fostering a community of shared growth and healing.”
The sound healing session, guided by the expert Swayambhu, offered a profoundly cathartic journey. Utilising various sound frequencies, it aimed to harmonise the body’s energy, reducing stress and promoting mental clarity. Prior to the festival, my perception of wellness was confined to traditional fitness routines. Dhaka Flow, however, opened my eyes to a richer spectrum of practice, from the playful connection of animal yoga to the expressive release of art healing and the energetic rhythm of Zumba.
“This marks our first festival in this part of the city, and we are thrilled to expand our reach,” Omar explained. “We are eager to welcome residents from Dhanmondi, Mirpur, and Mohammadpur. Our vision extends across Bangladesh, with a focus on regional initiatives, particularly for women and girls. We aim to challenge the prevailing mindset that limits girls’ access to exercise. Well-being is a fundamental right for everyone, regardless of age, background, or gender, essential for a healthy, secure, and productive society.”
The festival brimmed with diverse stalls, each dedicated to different facets of well-being. Note Journals, mental health counselling, and aromatherapy offered avenues for introspection and self-care, while clay and art stations, along with rickshaw art, ignited a sense of childlike wonder and creativity. Nestled amidst the urban bustle of Agargaon, the venue offered a tranquil oasis, a lush expanse of greenery. Guests could wander across sun-drenched patches of grass, climb trees, and savour delectable treats from food stalls, ranging from hearty meals to bhelpuri and fruitsicles, all under the warm spring sun. It was a perfect setting for rejuvenation and connection with nature.
Among the wellness experts present, Ruslan Hossain, a respected figure in Bangladeshi fitness, shared his observations. “When I began my career, the gym was often seen as an unsuitable place for youth,” he noted. “There was a strong cultural emphasis on outdoor play, and indoor fitness was sometimes viewed with scepticism. However, attitudes have changed dramatically, with a growing emphasis on health and well-being. People are now recognising the importance of structured exercise and nutrition, and this shift is incredibly positive. I applaud Dhaka Flow for bridging the gap between experts and those pursuing self-care, providing a platform where knowledge and guidance are readily accessible.”
Adding more dimension to the festival, zip-lining and rock climbing offered a thrilling counterpoint to the day’s introspective wellness activities. The air buzzed with excitement as participants challenged themselves, swinging through the trees and scaling the climbing wall. This surge of adrenaline provided a dynamic balance to the calm of meditation and yoga. The Post Office Society’s live performance provided a captivating finale, their warm and vibrant melodies echoing through the venue as the day transitioned into evening, marking the perfect end to a day of shared wellness and adventure.
“There was a time when seeking mental well-being carried a stigma, often linked to severe psychological issues,” Munjarin Abony, former Ms. World Bangladesh and Internet Personality, stated. “However, our viewpoints are shifting, as we explore varied self-care methods, like gym workouts and yoga. It’s essential to participate in these activities with our families, to build stronger communities and close the knowledge gap about mental health between generations.”
The ‘Warrior Within’ festival ended on a high note, with a dynamic performance by Kaaktaal on February 15th, following a series of enriching activities, including dance, Zumba, yoga, journaling, meditation, and arts & crafts. Yet, the journey didn’t end there. Dhaka Flow, committed to nurturing well-being, invited participants to join their Nepal Retreat spiritual tour from February 19th-22nd, offering a chance to deepen their spiritual practice and explore new horizons of self-discovery in the breathtaking scenery of Nepal.
Photograph: shuvz khan : photography