Bangladesh observes Janmashtami with colourful celebrations

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The Hindu community in Bangladesh is celebrating Janmashtami today (Friday) with religious fervour, marking the birth of Lord Krishna.

According to Hindu beliefs, Lord Vishnu appeared as Lord Krishna on this day to defeat evil and restore righteousness. Krishna is believed to have been born to Devaki and Vasudeva in Mathura on the eighth day of the bright fortnight, known as Shukla Pakkha, in the Bengali month of Bhadra during the Dwapara Yuga.

Various religious and cultural programmes have been organised across the country to mark the occasion. National newspapers have published special articles, while Bangladesh Betar, Bangladesh Television and private television and radio channels are broadcasting programmes highlighting Krishna's life and teachings.

A three-day celebration began Thursday at Bandarban Rajarmath, featuring religious discussions, the distribution of mahaprasad and other auspicious activities. A colourful procession is scheduled for Friday, with the festival set to conclude Saturday through a mahanam yajna, another procession and an exchange of greetings.

President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman separately extended greetings to the Hindu community on Janmashtami.

In his message, the President described Bangladesh as a country of communal harmony and highlighted secularism and unity as important strengths of the nation's society and culture. He called on everyone to support disadvantaged and vulnerable people and expressed hope that the festival would further strengthen religious harmony and mutual goodwill.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman also stressed the importance of maintaining social order, fraternity and communal harmony. He urged everyone to remain vigilant against any attempt to disrupt the peaceful and harmonious environment of the country.