Dhaka: The holy Eid-ul-Azha, the second largest religious festival for Muslims, is being observed throughout the nation with solemnity and religious devotion. Eid-ul-Azha falls on the 10th day of Zilhajj, the last month of the Islamic calendar, in memory of the event 4,500 years ago when Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) was prepared to sacrifice his son, Hazrat Ismail (AS), as an act of obedience to Allah. However, Allah intervened, sparing Hazrat Ismail (AS) and providing a ram for sacrifice instead.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, this significant occasion sees Muslims nationwide participating in congregational prayers and animal sacrifices in honor of Allah. Devotees also engage in munajat, seeking blessings for the nation’s peace, progress, and prosperity, along with the welfare of the global Muslim community.
Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus extended his greetings to the nation on Eid-ul-Azha. In separate messages, political leaders expressed wishes for peace, prosperity, and harmony. BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman urged citizens to share Eid’s joy with each other.
The primary Eid-ul-Azha congregation took place at the Jatiya Eidgah on the High Court premises at 7:30 am. Attendees included Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, Chief Justice, Supreme Court and High Court judges, Council of Advisers members, political leaders, senior government officials, and diplomats from various Muslim countries, alongside thousands of devotees. Security measures were implemented by law enforcement to ensure safety.
At Baitul Mukarram mosque, five Eid congregations were conducted, starting from 7 am and continuing until 10:45 am, as reported by an Islamic Foundation release. State-run and private broadcasters aired special programs to celebrate Eid-ul-Azha.
The government mandated 24-hour operation of CNG filling stations during the Eid holidays to facilitate travel for homebound citizens. The Power Division instructed stations to remain open around the clock on Eid day, the seven days preceding it, and the five days following the festival.