The Hindu community in Bangladesh is observing Janmashtami, one of the major religious festivals of Hinduism, today, Friday (September 4), commemorating the birth of Lord Krishna. The festival carries the message of establishing truth and justice, defeating evil and protecting the righteous. Various religious programmes have been arranged at temples across Dhaka and elsewhere in the country.

Temples have organised puja and worship, Harinam Sankirtan and Naam Yajna to mark the occasion. Many devotees are also observing fasts and worshipping Lord Krishna in their homes.

According to Hindu beliefs, Lord Krishna appeared in the prison of Mathura during the final period of the Dvapara Yuga, born to Devaki and Vasudeva while the tyrannical King Kansa ruled the region. His appearance is believed to have taken place to destroy evil forces and restore righteousness. Hindus celebrate Janmashtami every year to commemorate this sacred occasion.

President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman have extended greetings to the Hindu community on the occasion.

In his message, the President said Lord Krishna was a benevolent figure, a skilled statesman and a social reformer who appeared in the world with ideals of truth, justice, humanity and welfare. He also stressed the importance of building a non-communal and united society by following the philosophy of Lord Krishna.

The President further said religious conflicts, violence and divisions are increasing around the world. In such circumstances, he said, challenges must be addressed through patience, tolerance and mutual respect.

In his message, the Prime Minister said the teachings and ideals of Lord Krishna could further strengthen harmony and bonds of brotherhood in society. He urged everyone to remain vigilant so that the country’s environment of religious harmony is not disrupted in any way.

He also said every citizen must play an aware and responsible role in maintaining social discipline, fraternity and communal harmony.