The Hindu community in Bangladesh is set to celebrate Janmashtami, marking the birth of Lord Krishna, on Friday 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 a public holiday in Bangladesh.

National dailies will publish special articles while Bangladesh Betar, Bangladesh Television and other private TV channels and radio stations will air special programmes highlighting different aspects of Lord Krishna’s life and teachings.

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.”

Mentioning that conflicts, violence and divisions among people over religious differences are increasing in various parts of the world, he urged all to demonstrate patience and tolerance to address this crisis.

Mirza Fakhrul also 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.

The ideals and teachings of Lord Krishna would further strengthen the bonds of mutual goodwill and brotherhood, Tarique Rahman said, calling for building a welfare-oriented and enriched Bangladesh based on harmony, goodwill and mutual respect.