Dhaka: Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman has extended greetings to the Hindu community for the commencement of Sharadiya Durgotsab (Durga Puja), the significant religious festival for the Bangalee Hindu community, which begins on September 28. Dr. Rahman conveyed his well-wishes on behalf of himself and the Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami through a statement released by the party’s central publicity division.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Jamaat Ameer urged the administration and law enforcement agencies to ensure sufficient security measures, facilitating the Hindu community’s peaceful and unhindered celebration of Sharadiya Durga Puja. He appealed to the workers of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and all peace-loving citizens to offer comprehensive support for a smooth celebration of the festival.
Dr. Rahman highlighted Bangladesh’s global recognition as a role model for communal harmony. He emphasized that people from various communities, including Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, and Christian, have historically observed their religions and ceremonies in a peaceful and festive manner. He described this tradition of peaceful coexistence as extraordinary in global history.
He noted that international organizations and influential nations have consistently praised Bangladesh for its communal harmony, labeling it a ‘Moderate Muslim Country’ and a ‘role model’ for harmonious coexistence. Dr. Rahman recalled the commendation from former Australian High Commissioner Greg Wilcock, who admired the interfaith cooperation when Puja and Eid coincided, calling Bangladesh a nation of communal harmony.
Dr. Rahman also referenced European Union delegation Head William Hanna’s remarks, which recognized Bangladesh as an advanced model of communal harmony, where diverse faiths coexist peacefully, maintaining harmony and complete religious freedom.
Concluding his statement, Dr. Rahman emphasized that the collective participation in Bangladesh’s religious festivals serves as a convergence point for people from all walks of life, enhancing the nation’s global reputation. He expressed hope that Sharadiya Durgotsab would further strengthen bonds of tolerance and harmony in national life, wishing for the happiness, peace, and prosperity of the Hindu community and all ethnic groups in Bangladesh. He underscored the need to preserve this tradition of communal harmony, citing mutual love, tolerance, and respect as fundamental elements of the nation’s culture.