Dhaka: The Hindu community in Bangladesh is set to celebrate Janmashtami, marking the birth of Lord Krishna, on Friday with due religious fervour. According to United News of Bangladesh, the celebration of Janmashtami underscores a significant religious tradition where Lord Vishnu incarnated as Lord Krishna to protect 'Dharma' from evil and restore righteousness. Krishna was born to Devaki and Vasudeva in Mathura on the eighth day of the bright fortnight, known as 'Shukla Pakkha', in the Bengali month of Bhadra during the Dwapara Yuga.
The day is marked as a public holiday in Bangladesh, signifying its importance. National dailies will feature special articles, while Bangladesh Betar, Bangladesh Television, and other private TV channels and radio stations will broadcast special programmes that highlight different aspects of Lord Krishna's life and teachings.
President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman have issued separate messages greeting the Hindu community on this auspicious occasion. In his message, the President emphasized Bangladesh's identity as a country of communal harmony, stressing secularism and unity as major societal strengths. He addressed the rising global conflicts and divisions over religious differences, urging patience and tolerance to tackle such crises.
Mirza Fakhrul called for a collective spirit of helping others and working for the welfare of the disadvantaged and vulnerable, expressing hope that the festival will strengthen religious harmony and mutual goodwill. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman emphasized the importance of maintaining social order, fraternity, and communal harmony. He urged vigilance to prevent any undermining of the harmonious environment.
The Prime Minister also highlighted that the ideals and teachings of Lord Krishna could further solidify the bonds of mutual goodwill and brotherhood, advocating for building a welfare-oriented and enriched Bangladesh grounded in harmony, goodwill, and mutual respect.