Dhaka: Holy Eid-ul-Fitr, one of the most significant religious festivals for Muslims, was celebrated across the country with religious fervor and joy.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the main congregation of Eid-ul-Fitr was held at the National Eidgah on the High Court premises at 8:30 am. President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman participated in the prayers, which were led by Mufti Muhammad Abdul Malek, Khatib of Baitul Mukarram National Mosque. The event saw a gathering of high-profile dignitaries including the Chief Justice, cabinet members, and senior officials from both civil and military sectors. Despite overcast skies and light rain, thousands of devotees gathered at the National Eidgah, which had arrangements for about 35,000 people including separate facilities for women.
The security at the National Eidgah was tight, with police, RAB, and Special Security Force members ensuring the safety of the VVIPs. Special ablution facilities were provided for the attendees. Following the prayers, President Shahabuddin exchanged greetings with Prime Minister Rahman and other attendees.
In addition to the main congregation, five separate Eid jamaats were held at Baitul Mukarram National Mosque throughout the morning, each led by different religious leaders. The congregations were well-attended, with Muslims exchanging greetings following the prayers.
A special congregation was also organized in the tunnel of South Plaza of Jatiya Sangsad (JS) Bhaban at 8 am, attended by JS Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad and officials from the Parliament Secretariat. For the first time, separate arrangements for women were made at this venue. The congregation was followed by a special prayer seeking the welfare of the Muslim Ummah.
In Agargaon, an Eid Jamaat was conducted at the site of the former Dhaka International Trade Fair, organized by the Dhaka North City Corporation. This congregation was led by Maulana Qari Golam Mustafa, with DNCC Administrator Md. Safiqul Islam Khan in attendance.
President Shahabuddin also opened the doors of Bangabhaban to around 10,000 distinguished guests, exchanging greetings with a cross-section of society. Similarly, Prime Minister Rahman hosted a gathering at the State Guest House Jamuna, meeting with foreign diplomats, cabinet members, and other prominent figures. After the formalities, he visited Sher-e-Bangla Nagar to offer prayers at the graves of his parents, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia.
In other parts of the country, the festival was marked with similar enthusiasm. Chattogram hosted 321 Eid congregations, including major ones at M A Aziz Stadium. In Kishoreganj, Sholakia Eidgah witnessed over six lakh devotees, marking it as one of the largest gatherings in the country. The historic Gor-e-Shaheed Maidan in Dinajpur also hosted a significant congregation, albeit with slightly reduced attendance due to inclement weather.
The festive spirit was palpable across the country, with roads and public spaces in the capital adorned with festoons. Special meals were served in prisons, hospitals, and other institutions, while media outlets aired special programs to celebrate the occasion.