Well, I’ve promised myself to write on every Wednesday (my off day). And coincidently, it falls on the big day for Indonesia. The New Year for the Muslims, Idul Fitri. Guess I’m at the right place at the right time. This was the shot I’ve got yesterday night around 11pm.

VanOord Guys and the Banjar Lady

Oopss.. not this. It was so happening yesterday. That’s the first time I saw so many locals strolling and gathering along the street. Everybody was so happy to welcome the new year. The shopping malls were crowded with last minute buyers. Fireworks everywhere, every single corner…

Fireworks at Martapura River

I am lucky to stay at Swissbel Hotel where I can shoot this beautiful scenery just in front of it. Everybody gathered to enjoy the “magical” moment. If you realise from the lower right of the above photo, there were almost hundred of locals gathered on their boats to witness the beautiful light. You might think that this is an official celebration by the Banjar authorities. Nope, the fireworks are released individually by the public. Anyone can buy them easily along the streets and release it anywhere. No restriction at all, I believe it is legal to release fireworks here in Banjarmasin, Indonesia. Haha.. of course, we released once during our BBQ dinner last month.

I could still remember I’ve celebrated Hari Raya in Geylang Serai, Singapore last year. Time really flies. It’s gonna be end of the year soon. Well, actually we had a farewell party yesterday. It was for our project manager. Had an expensive dinner at Japanese restaurant and some whisky in our hotel bar.

Farewell dinner for Wilco

Phew, it was a long night for me … anyway, I’m so happy to get such wonderful shots yesterday. Furthermore, no more fasting period.. and Happy Puppy (karaoke) is back to business. Haha..

For more shots of The Night Before Idul Fitri - Fireworks. Click Here

This entry was posted on Wednesday, October 1st, 2008 at 3:11 am and is filed under Life issues, Photography, Travel. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.