Dhaka, Jan. 14 -- In the mazelike streets of Old Dhaka, the rooftops of high-rises display a show unlike any other. Starting with the iconic kite flying in the afternoon, the festival, marking the end of Bangla month Poush, keeps getting brighter as night descends.

Residents of this particular area of the capital celebrate the southward journey of the sun from the tropic of Capricorn to the tropic of Cancer. The festival, which usually takes place from January 14-15, is also known as Makar (Capricorn) Shankranti.

The afternoon sky, swarming with colourful kites of various sizes, offers an unforgettable sight.

As the sun bids farewell to the day, 'fanoosh' (colourful paper lanterns) dot the sky like small fireflies. The celebrations tur...