Today (4 September) is Janmashtami. The Hindu community in Bangladesh is celebrating Janmashtami, marking the birth of Lord Krishna with due religious fervour.

According to Hindu belief, Lord Vishnu incarnated as Lord Krishna on this day 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 being celebrated with various programmes.

Besides, national dailies published special articles while Bangladesh Betar, Bangladesh Television and other private TV channels and radio stations are airing special programmes highlighting different aspects of Lord Krishna’s life and teachings.

Earlier, a three-day programme featuring various religious and auspicious activities began on Thursday at Bandarban Rajarmath on the occasion.

The organisers said during the three-day celebration, mahaprasad is being distributed every afternoon and night, while religious discussions are being be held in the afternoon each day.

A colourful procession is scheduled for today.

The three-day colourful Janmashtami festival will conclude on Saturday with the completion of the mahanam yajna in the early morning, a procession through the town, and an exchange of greetings.

Meanwhile, President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman issued separate messages greeting the Hindu community on the occasion of Janmashtami.

In his message, the President described Bangladesh as a country of communal harmony. “Secularism and a sense of unity are among the major strengths of our society and culture.”

Mirza Fakhrul called upon everyone, including members of the Hindu community, to come forward with the noble spirit of helping others and work for the welfare of disadvantaged and vulnerable people in society.

He expressed hope that the festival will further strengthen the religious harmony and mutual goodwill prevailing in society.

In his message, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman underscored the need for everyone to play a conscious and responsible role in maintaining social order, fraternity and communal harmony.

He also urged all to remain vigilant so that no one can undermine the environment of harmony.