Nationwide Durga Puja celebrations with record mandaps, funding and enhanced security: Home Minister

Bangladesh is celebrating this year’s Sharadiya Durga Puja with a record number of puja mandaps, increased government allocations, extended holidays and enhanced security, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said Friday.

Speaking as chief guest at the Maha Shashthi celebration organised by Gulshan-Banani Sarbojonin Puja Foundation at Banani Puja Ground in the capital, Ahmed reaffirmed the constitutional rights of all citizens to practise their religions freely and without discrimination.

Emphasis on Religious Harmony

The home minister stressed the importance of religious harmony, saying all citizens should be recognised as equal members of the nation rather than divided into separate communities.

He said the Constitution guarantees every citizen the freedom to practise their religion, establish places of worship and observe religious traditions.

Ahmed also said the government prioritises the rights and dignity of all citizens, regardless of religious identity, adding that members of the Hindu community should not be treated as a political vote bank.

Banani Mandap Highlights Cultural Heritage

Praising the artistic presentation of the Banani Durga Puja mandap, Ahmed commended the organisers for incorporating indigenous cultural elements and traditional aesthetics.

This year’s theme, “Jalaj,” draws inspiration from local cultural elements, materials and ambience. The minister described the arrangements as exceptional and emphasised the importance of preserving Bangladesh’s cultural heritage.

Diplomats and Community Leaders Attend

Inspector General of Police Ali Hossain Fakir attended the event as special guest. Several foreign ambassadors, diplomatic representatives and community leaders were also present.

Among the attendees and speakers were Bangladesh Football Federation President Tabith Awal, Gulshan Society President Barrister Omar Sadat and Banani Society President Shawkat Ali Bhuiyan.

The programme was chaired by Gulshan-Banani Sarbojonin Puja Foundation President Alok Saha and moderated by foundation member Swapna Bhowmik. General Secretary Binay Gopal Roy delivered the welcome address.

Festivities Begin with Maha Shashthi

The celebration began with devotional songs welcoming Goddess Durga, dance performances and the lighting of ceremonial lamps. The event also featured the unveiling of the special Sharadiya publication, Bodhan.

Durga Puja is one of the most significant festivals for Hindus in Bangladesh, bringing communities together through religious rituals, cultural programmes and celebrations that reflect the country’s traditions of religious coexistence and cultural diversity.