In January, Bangladeshi individuals tend to showcase a sudden expertise in meteorology as the temperature drops slightly. People from all walks of life, from uncles to rickshaw pullers, engage in conversations about the weather, each trying to outdo the other with tales of past winters that seem more extreme than reality.
These discussions often turn into a competition of storytelling, with individuals recalling instances of extreme cold from years gone by. Despite the fact that Bangladesh typically experiences mild winters due to its geographical location, anecdotes of frozen ponds and thick fog are shared with conviction and embellishment.
While some reminisce about snowfall in regions like Sylhet and Barendra from centuries ago, the truth remains that modern-day Bangladesh has never officially recorded snowfall. The coldest temperature recorded was 2.6 degrees Celsius in Tetulia in 2018, which, while significant by local standards, was not cold enough for snow to form.
The narrative of winter in Bangladesh is not just about the weather but also about storytelling and nostalgia. Each January, individuals engage in conversations that blend fact and fiction, weaving tales of resilience and endurance in the face of perceived harsh conditions. Despite the exaggerations, these discussions serve as a way to connect with the past and demonstrate a shared sense of strength and camaraderie.