Bangladesh: Eid-ul-Fitr Congregation Held at National Eidgah, President and PM Join Prayers
The main congregation of Eid-ul-Fitr was held at the National Eidgah in the capital on Saturday morning, with Mohammed Shahabuddin and Tarique Rahman offering prayers alongside thousands of worshippers.
The Eid prayer began at 8:30am, shortly after the prime minister arrived at the venue around 8:20am, followed by the president five minutes later. The two leaders stood side by side during the prayer—marking a rare moment, as it has been more than three decades since both the president and prime minister jointly attended the main Eid congregation at the same venue.
High-Level Participation and Prayers for Peace
The congregation was attended by senior figures including Zubayer Rahman Chowdhury, judges of the Supreme Court and High Court divisions, cabinet members, political leaders, diplomats, and top government officials.
The prayer was led by Mufti Abdul Malek, khatib of the Baitul Mukarram National Mosque. Following the khutbah, a special supplication (munajat) was offered, seeking peace, prosperity, and stability for Bangladesh, as well as an end to conflicts and unrest across the world.
Eid Amid Global Uncertainty
This year’s Eid comes at a time of heightened global tensions, particularly in the Middle East, raising concerns about wider economic and geopolitical impacts, including for Bangladesh. Despite the challenging global context, the festival brought a message of joy and unity for Muslims.
Security and Arrangements
Tight security measures were put in place at the National Eidgah. Worshippers entered through designated checkpoints equipped with archways and metal detectors, while CCTV surveillance covered the entire area.
Barricades were set up at key entry points including Matsya Bhaban, Press Club, and Shikkha Bhaban intersections to regulate traffic and ensure safety. Law enforcement personnel were deployed throughout the venue and surrounding areas.
Large Turnout of Worshippers
Devotees began arriving early in the morning, forming long queues from around 7:00am. The main congregation area reached full capacity well before the prayer began, prompting many to offer prayers on nearby roads.
Authorities arranged space for around 35,000 worshippers within the main pandal, with separate facilities for women. Including adjacent roads and open areas, an estimated 90,000 to 100,000 people were able to participate in the prayers.
Meanwhile, multiple Eid congregations were also held at the Baitul Mukarram National Mosque starting from 7:00am, with several more scheduled throughout the morning. Similar congregations took place across the capital and the rest of the country.
