In a statement issued on Friday (September 26), Dr. Rahman said, “The main phase of the autumn Durga Puja, a major religious festival of the Hindu community, is going to begin from September 28. On this occasion, I extend my heartfelt greetings to the Hindu community on behalf of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and myself.”
Highlighting Bangladesh’s tradition of communal harmony, he noted, “Bangladesh is known and praised worldwide as a role model of communal harmony. People of all communities, including Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians, have long been free to practice their respective religions and rituals in a peaceful and festive environment. Such examples of coexistence are rare in world history.”
He further pointed out that various international organizations and dignitaries have praised Bangladesh for its atmosphere of harmony. Former Australian High Commissioner H.E. Gray Will Cook once remarked, “Bangladesh is a country of communal harmony. We are impressed by the way people of one religion cooperate with people of another religion in celebrating Puja and Eid together.” Similarly, former European Union Ambassador William Hanna described Bangladesh as “a shining example of communal harmony, rare in the world.”
Dr. Rahman expressed hope that the Durga Puja festival would further strengthen tolerance and unity in the country’s social fabric. “I wish happiness, peace, and prosperity to all ethnic and religious communities, including the Hindu community. Mutual love, tolerance, and respect are deeply rooted in our culture, and this tradition of harmony must remain intact,” he said.
Calling for peaceful celebrations, the Jamaat chief urged law enforcement agencies to ensure proper security measures during the festival. “Like in the past, I request the authorities to provide adequate security so that the Hindu community can celebrate Durga Puja smoothly and peacefully. At the same time, I appeal to all levels of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and peace-loving citizens to extend full cooperation in making the festival a success,” he added.
