Feeling inspired by the adventures of Mr Islam and Ms Mustoe, I took advantage of Friday morning's light traffic to bike to old Dhaka and check out Bara Katra/Chhota Katra.
On the way I ran into this life-size sculpture on Shaheed Tajuddin Rd, made entirely from rickshaw/bicycle chains:
When I reached old Dhaka, the stores were all closed, including the famous Haji's Biriyani House on Alauddin Road. It has no signs, but twice a day people line up to buy the delicious biriyani cooked in mustard oil:
Life, however, went on. Friday luxuries included a visit to the barbershop...
...and getting the ears cleaned.
And don't forget shoes need polishing too:
A man in front of a closed store sold colorful children's clothes...
...And a girl was out wearing her "Friday best"
I had to share the road with all manners of vehicles!
The sky grew dark and in minutes there was a torrential downpour. I got shelter, but this rickshawallah did not get a break.
After the rain cleared, kids came out to play soccer on the wet street.
The fresh mud was no deterrant for a good tumble!
I went on to my destination. Details and photos in the next posting.