Sylhet
Area code: 0821

The town of Sylhet has a faintly British atmosphere and, while hardly charming overall, does have a few interesting sights. Apart from the usual administrative buildings, the former residences and social structures seem to have weathered the transition from independence better than many other pieces of British Raj flotsam. Colonnaded residences are still fronted by neatly trimmed lawns, and verandahs still have leather armchairs and sofas arranged for delicate tastes. Most wealthy Bangladeshis and expatriates, however, now live in the more modern eastern quarter of town, Upashahar.

Compared to most Bangladeshi cities Sylhet seems to be quite prosperous, with smart new shops, airline offices, large homes and cars. However, this prosperity is concentrated in the hands of Sylheti emigres and their relatives. There is some resentment in the wider community that money received from overseas goes towards mosques, shrines and shopping centres rather than into developing local industry.

Sylhet has various religious festivals -Muslim, Hindu and Buddhist. The Hindu melas (fairs), the Laspurnima, Jolung Jatra and Rota Jatra, are the most colourful, all dedicated to Radha-Krishna. During these Hindu melas the Manipuri dances are held.