Dhaka: The holy Eid-e-Miladunnabi, commemorating both the birth and demise anniversary of Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (SM), is being observed across the country today with religious solemnity and state honour. On this day, the 12th of Rabiul Awal in 570 Hijri, Prophet Muhammad (SM) was born in Mecca, while he also passed away on the same date in 632 Hijri.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the government has declared a general holiday to honour the occasion. Mosques, Islamic institutions, and various organisations are conducting special prayers, discussions, and cultural programmes to highlight the life and teachings of the Prophet (PBUH). Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus extended his greetings to the people of Bangladesh and Muslims worldwide, urging for peace, unity, and devotion to the Prophet's ideals.
Bangladesh Television, Bangladesh Betar, and national dailies are featuring special programmes and supplements to emphasize the day's significance. The Islamic Foundation is at the forefront of the nationwide observances, organising Quran recitations, Hamd-Na'at renditions, poetry sessions, seminars, and competitions. A four-day seminar on the Prophet's life and works is ongoing at Baitul Mukarram National Mosque, while preparations for a month-long Islamic Book Fair, starting on September 13, are underway, with participation from local and international publishers.
The Islamic Foundation (IF) has planned various religious and cultural events, including Qiraat and Hamd-Na'at sessions, poetry recitations, and a Khutba writing competition in Arabic. The IF initiative involves a range of programmes nationwide, including at the Baitul Mukarram National Mosque. In collaboration with Bangladesh Betar, a seminar will be broadcast, and sessions will be recorded before a live audience at the Islamic Foundation Auditorium.
Additionally, a Seerat memorial featuring contributions from prominent scholars and writers has been published. An Islamic Cultural Competition for students of various educational institutions in Dhaka has been organized, with events taking place on September 15-16 and an award ceremony on September 18. Special Qiraat Mahfil and Hamd-Na'at sessions are scheduled for specific dates after prayers, and commemorative souvenirs and seminars will also be part of the observance.
Similar programmes, including waz mahfils and cultural competitions, are being held at all divisional and district offices of the Islamic Foundation, 56 Islamic missions, and eight Imam Training Academies nationwide. For children, Bangladesh Shishu Academy is hosting Hamd-Na'at performances, essay competitions, and discussion sessions. Improved diets are being served in hospitals, prisons, and shelters, while the day is being observed with reverence at Bangladesh's embassies and missions abroad.
Home Adviser Lieutenant General (Retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury has instructed law enforcement agencies to maintain heightened vigilance and ensure robust arrangements, especially at major mosques and religious sites. Extensive security measures have been implemented by the government to ensure peaceful observance, with special attention to large gatherings in key cities, including Dhaka, Chattogram, Sylhet, Khulna, and Rajshahi. Enhanced surveillance, crowd management, and traffic regulations are in place to facilitate smooth and safe celebrations.