23rd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Drone/Aerial
Polo Bawa-A Tradition in Motion

From above, the Polo Bawa festival comes to life—a vibrant gathering where tradition meets celebration. In this aerial view, hundreds of villagers wade through the shallow waters, their bamboo traps in hand, eagerly searching for fish. Laughter and cheers ripple through the scene as friends and strangers unite in a centuries-old tradition, momentarily leaving behind the worries of daily life. The rhythmic movement of people, the glimmer of water, and the natural landscape form a striking composition that captures the spirit of this unique cultural event. This photograph is not just about fishing; it’s about community, heritage, and the unbreakable bond between people and nature. This Picture was taken in Pabna,Bangladesh on November 30, 2024.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 11.2024
Date Uploaded: 12.2025
Photo Location: Pabna, Bangladesh
Camera: L1D-20c
Copyright: © Shahedul Islam Sadik