Bangladesh is celebrating Eid-ul-Azha with deep religious devotion and enthusiasm

Bangladesh Celebrates Eid-ul-Azha with Solemnity and Religious Zeal

Bangladesh is observing the holy Eid-ul-Azha, one of the most significant religious festivals for Muslims, with due solemnity and spiritual fervour.

Eid-ul-Azha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, falls on the 10th day of Zilhajj, the final month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The festival commemorates the profound act of faith from around 4,500 years ago, when Prophet Ibrahim (AS) willingly prepared to sacrifice his beloved son, Prophet Ismail (AS), in obedience to Allah’s command. In a gesture of divine mercy, Allah spared Ismail (AS) and provided a ram for sacrifice instead.

To honour this sacred occasion, Muslims across the country gathered for congregational prayers and sacrificed animals as acts of devotion, distributing the meat among family, friends, and those in need.

President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus extended heartfelt Eid greetings to the nation in separate messages.

The main Eid congregation took place at the National Eidgah on the High Court premises in Dhaka at 7:30am on Saturday. Chief Adviser Prof Yunus, members of the Advisory Council, political leaders, diplomats, and people from all walks of life participated in the prayer.

As in previous years, five Eid congregations were held at Baitul Mukarram National Mosque, starting at 7:00am and followed by additional jamaats at 8:00am, 9:00am, 10:00am, and 10:45am.

The country’s largest Eid gathering was held at the historic Sholakia Eidgah in Kishoreganj at 9:00am.

Special munajats (supplications) were offered during the prayers, seeking Allah’s blessings for peace, progress, and prosperity of Bangladesh, and for the well-being of Muslims across the world.

Following the prayers, devotees visited graveyards to pray for the eternal peace of their departed loved ones.

Law enforcement agencies implemented comprehensive security measures to ensure the safe and peaceful observance of the festival across the country.

In preparation for Eid, the Advisory Council approved a 10-day public holiday for government offices, spanning from June 5 to June 14.

Meanwhile, thousands of people left Dhaka and other cities to join their families for the festivities. However, many faced severe hardship due to prolonged traffic congestion on highways. The scorching heat added to the suffering of passengers, especially women, children, and transport workers.

Reports also emerged of excessive transport fares—up to three times the regular rates—compounding the troubles of holiday travellers.

Marking the festive occasion, television and radio channels are broadcasting special Eid programmes.

Additionally, festive meals are being served in hospitals, prisons, government children's homes (Chotomoni Nibash), centres for persons with disabilities, orphanages, shelter homes, and institutions for the destitute.