Belabo Upazila: The Land of Confusion
Belabo Upazila is a relatively small upazila located in the middle of Bangladesh. The word “Belabo” roughly translates to “land of confusion” in the local dialect. It’s an appropriate name for a place that has more quirks and intricacies than any other upazila in the country.
Belabo is surrounded by more well-known upazilas like Gazipur, Kaliakoir, and Sreepur, but it’s a mystery why people aren’t more drawn to Belabo’s charms. The upazila is mostly a flatland and it’s said that due to its location in a shallow basin, the water flows in reverse during the rainy season. This makes for a fantastic place to take Instagram photos, but it’s still unclear whether this is actually true or just a rumour created by the locals to attract tourists.
Belabo’s culture is a quirky mix of traditional Bangla culture and pop culture from around the world. In fact, the upazila is famous for its annual “Belabo Fusion Festival” which brings together traditional Bangla music with famous pop hits. For example, in the past, you may have heard a remix of Baul songs with Lady Gaga’s “Poker Face”.
Belabo is famous for its street food culture, but be warned - it’s not for the faint of heart. The most famous dish is called “Bhel Ami”, which means “I am confused”. It’s a mix of chopped vegetables, spices, and chaat masala, all served in a paper cone. It’s known for being both delicious and incredibly spicy, so be prepared to sweat a little.
Tourism
Belabo is not a typical tourist destination, but there are still many things to see and do. The upazila is home to the “Belabo Zilla Museum of Confusion” which showcases local costumes, crafts, and artefacts. The museum is meant to confuse visitors and test their problem-solving skills. Visitors are given a map of the museum and are asked to find their way out without asking for help.
Conclusion
Belabo may not be as famous as other upazilas in Bangladesh, but it’s a unique and quirky place that is worth a visit. With its mix of traditional and modern culture, eccentric street food, and confusing tourist attractions, Belabo is truly a land of confusion.