Bangladesh will celebrate Eid-ul-Azha on Thursday with religious fervour and festivity across the country.

Muslims from all walks of life are set to observe the festival in the spirit of devotion, sacrifice, and submission to the will of Almighty Allah.

Eid congregations will be held at Eidgahs and mosques nationwide in the morning, where devotees will offer prayers and seek divine blessings.

Religious scholars and khateebs are expected to deliver sermons focusing on the significance of Qurbani and the values of sacrifice, compassion, and obedience in Islam.

Following the prayers, people will exchange Eid greetings, reinforcing the bonds of unity and brotherhood.

President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, have greeted the nation on the occasion.

In a video message in the evening, the Prime Minister said holy Eid-ul-Azha has once again arrived at the doorsteps of the Muslim Ummah with the message of sacrifice, piety and self-purification.

“I extend my greetings on the occasion of holy Eid-ul-Azha to Muslims in Bangladesh and across the world. I also wish all people of the country, regardless of political belief, religion or ethnicity, a happy Eid. Eid Mubarak,” he said.

The Prime Minister prayed to Almighty Allah for peace, security and stability for Bangladesh, the Muslim world and humanity as a whole.

He also prayed for global peace, harmony and safety.

The main Eid congregation in the capital will take place at the National Eidgah adjacent to the High Court premises.

Preparations at the venue have already been completed, with the President, Prime Minister, judges, diplomats, political leaders, and people from different professions expected to attend.

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has intensified security measures surrounding the National Eidgah to protect the lives and property of city residents and ensure a peaceful celebration of Eid.

Speaking to the media after inspecting preparations at the National Eidgah, DMP Commissioner Mosleh Uddin Ahmed said that only 10 to 15 percent of police personnel in Dhaka Metropolitan City have been granted leave due to heightened security arrangements for Eid.

Government, semi-government, and autonomous institution buildings have been illuminated marking the festival.

State-run Bangladesh Television and Bangladesh Betar, along with private television channels, are broadcasting special programmes to celebrate the occasion.

Special meals will also be served at hospitals, orphanages, prisons, and child care centres.

After Eid prayers, Muslims will perform Qurbani, sacrificing animals in remembrance of the devotion of Hazrat Ibrahim (AS), who was willing to sacrifice his beloved son Hazrat Ismail (AS) in obedience to Allah’s command.

According to Islamic belief, Almighty Allah later replaced Ismail (AS) with a sacrificial animal, symbolising unwavering faith and sacrifice.