Dhaka, Mar 30 (V7N) - The crescent moon of 1446 Hijri Shawwal has been sighted in Bangladesh, confirming that Eid-ul-Fitr will be celebrated tomorrow, Monday. The announcement was made at a press conference after a meeting of the National Moon Sighting Committee on Sunday evening. Dr. A.F.M. Khalid Hossain, the religious affairs advisor, confirmed the news.

The meeting, held at Baitul Mukarram National Mosque at 6:30 PM, reviewed reports from all district administrations, Islamic Foundation offices across 64 districts, the Bangladesh Meteorological Department, and the Space Research and Remote Sensing Organization before making the official announcement.

For Muslims, Eid-ul-Fitr is a divine gift following a month of fasting, devotion, and self-restraint during Ramadan. It is a time for joy, generosity, and unity. Zakat and Fitrah—charitable obligations—must be fulfilled before attending the Eid prayer, ensuring that everyone, regardless of financial status, can partake in the festivities.

Eid celebrations in Bangladesh extend beyond religious observance, transforming into a nationwide festival. Millions of people travel to their hometowns to celebrate with their families. The government had earlier declared an extended nine-day holiday from March 28 to April 5, allowing for smoother travel and reducing congestion.

Markets and shopping malls witnessed unprecedented crowds in the days leading up to Eid, as people searched for the best outfits for themselves and their loved ones. However, not everyone will be able to afford new clothes or a grand feast. Recent flooding in southern Bangladesh has left many families homeless, highlighting the need for community support.

Special Eid congregations have been arranged at mosques and open prayer grounds (Eidgahs) across the country. In Dhaka, a total of 1,739 Eid prayers will be held, including 111 major Eidgahs and 1,577 mosques. The main Eid congregation will take place at the National Eidgah at 8:30 AM. If weather conditions are unfavorable, the prayer will be held at Baitul Mukarram National Mosque at 9:00 AM. The mosque will also host five Eid prayers, the first at 7:00 AM and the last at 10:45 AM.

The largest Eid congregation in Asia, held at Gor-e-Shaheed Eidgah in Dinajpur, will start at 9:00 AM. In Kishoreganj’s Sholakia Eidgah, the 198th Eid prayer will begin at 10:00 AM, led by Maulana Farid Uddin Masud.

Following tradition, people will exchange greetings and sweets, with vermicelli-based desserts (Shemai) being a staple in households. Special meals will also be served in hospitals, orphanages, shelter homes, old-age homes, prisons, and juvenile correction centers.

Public parks, zoo, and other entertainment venues have been decorated for visitors, creating a festive atmosphere.

Security and Greetings from the Interim Government

To ensure a safe and peaceful Eid, law enforcement agencies have taken strict security measures across the country.

Interim government Chief Advisor Professor Muhammad Yunus extended his Eid greetings to the nation. In his message, he encouraged people to celebrate Eid with their families, visit the graves of their loved ones, and care for those in need.

“Eid Mubarak to all! May this festival bring peace, prosperity, and happiness to everyone.”

END/RH/