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20 Special National Celebrating Days in Bangladesh
1. Independence Day
Independence Day in Bangladesh commemorates the nation’s declaration of independence from Pakistan on March 26, 1971. It marks the beginning of the Bangladesh Liberation War, a significant chapter in the country’s history. The day is celebrated annually with great enthusiasm and patriotism throughout Bangladesh.
On this day, people pay homage to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the nation’s freedom. The celebrations typically include flag hoisting ceremonies, parades, cultural events, and tributes to the freedom fighters.
Independence Day is not only a time for remembrance but also a moment for Bangladeshis to reflect on their journey as an independent nation and renew their commitment to building a prosperous and inclusive future. It’s a day filled with pride, unity, and a celebration of Bangladesh’s rich cultural heritage and its unwavering spirit of resilience.
2. Eid ul Adha
Eid ul-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most significant religious celebrations in Islam. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Isma’il (Ishmael) as an act of obedience to God, who provided a ram as a substitute at the last moment.
Celebrated on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the twelfth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, Eid ul-Adha follows the annual pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj) and lasts for three days.
During Eid ul-Adha, Muslims around the world perform the ritual of Qurbani, or sacrifice, by slaughtering an animal, typically a goat, sheep, cow, or camel. The meat is then divided into three parts: one-third is given to the needy, one-third is shared with relatives and friends, and the remaining third is kept for the family.
Apart from the sacrifice, Eid ul-Adha is a time for Muslims to come together in prayer, reflection, and gratitude. Families and friends gather to share meals, exchange gifts, and strengthen bonds. It is also a time for acts of charity and kindness, as Muslims are encouraged to remember those less fortunate in their celebrations.
Eid ul-Adha serves as a reminder of the importance of sacrifice, obedience to God, and compassion towards others, embodying the spirit of selflessness and unity within the global
3. May Day
May Day, also known as International Workers’ Day or Labour Day, is observed annually on May 1st to honor the contributions and struggles of workers worldwide. The day commemorates the historic labor movement’s efforts to secure fair working conditions, better wages, and other rights for workers.
The origins of May Day can be traced back to the late 19th century when labor movements in the United States and Europe campaigned for an eight-hour workday. One of the pivotal events leading to the establishment of May Day was the Haymarket affair in Chicago in 1886, where labor activists rallied for the eight-hour workday. The protests turned violent, resulting in casualties and arrests, but they ultimately drew attention to the plight of workers and galvanized support for labor rights.
Today, May Day is marked by various activities, including marches, rallies, and demonstrations organized by labor unions, worker advocacy groups, and social justice organizations. These events serve as platforms to raise awareness about labor issues, highlight ongoing struggles, and advocate for workers’ rights.
While May Day is celebrated differently in different countries, it remains a symbol of solidarity among workers worldwide, reminding us of the ongoing need to protect and advance the rights and dignity of all workers, regardless of their occupation or background.
4. Bengali New Year
Bengali New Year, locally known as “Pohela Boishakh,” marks the beginning of the Bengali calendar year and is celebrated with joy and festivity in Bangladesh and the Indian state of West Bengal, as well as by Bengali communities around the world. Falling typically on April 14th or 15th, the celebration coincides with the arrival of spring, symbolizing new beginnings, hope, and prosperity.
Pohela Boishakh festivities include colorful processions, traditional music and dance performances, art exhibitions, and elaborate feasts. People dress in vibrant traditional attire, with women wearing saris adorned with colorful designs, and men donning panjabis or kurta-pyjamas.
One of the highlights of Pohela Boishakh is the Mangal Shobhajatra, a lively procession featuring giant masks, floats, and cultural displays, symbolizing unity, resilience, and the triumph of good over evil. Additionally, people gather with family and friends to enjoy special dishes like panta bhat (fermented rice), ilish bhapa (steamed hilsa fish), and various sweets, including roshogolla and sandesh.
Pohela Boishakh is not only a time for celebration but also for reflection and renewal. It fosters a sense of cultural pride and community spirit, bringing people together to embrace their heritage and look forward to a prosperous new year filled with happiness and harmony.
5. Buddha’s Birthday
Buddha’s Birthday, also known as Vesak or Buddha Purnima, is a significant religious festival celebrated by Buddhists around the world. It commemorates the birth, enlightenment (nirvana), and death (parinirvana) of Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism, traditionally believed to have occurred on the same day.
The festival typically falls on the full moon day in the month of Vesakha (usually in May), according to the lunar calendar observed in many Buddhist traditions. It is a time for devout Buddhists to reflect on the teachings of the Buddha, practice acts of generosity, and engage in acts of kindness and compassion.
Celebrations of Buddha’s Birthday vary across different cultures and Buddhist communities. In some countries, devotees visit temples to participate in religious rituals, offer prayers, and make offerings of flowers, incense, and food. In others, colorful processions, cultural performances, and lantern-lighting ceremonies are held to mark the occasion.
Central to Vesak celebrations is the practice of Dana (generosity), Sila (morality), and Bhavana (meditation), which are considered essential aspects of Buddhist life. Buddhists also engage in acts of charity, such as giving alms to the poor and supporting charitable causes, as a way of expressing gratitude for the Buddha’s teachings.
Buddha’s Birthday is not only a time for religious observance but also a joyous occasion for families and communities to come together, share meals, and foster a spirit of harmony and goodwill. It serves as a reminder of the timeless wisdom of the Buddha and the universal values of peace, compassion, and enlightenment.
6. Ashura
Ashura, observed primarily by the Shia Muslim community in Bangladesh, is a significant religious event commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussein ibn Ali, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, at the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. The date of Ashura falls on the 10th day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
In Bangladesh, Ashura is marked with solemn processions, gatherings, and religious rituals. Devotees, dressed in black as a symbol of mourning, participate in marches and recite elegies (marsiyas) and poetic lamentations (nauhas) that narrate the events of Karbala and express grief over Imam Hussein’s martyrdom.
One of the distinctive features of Ashura observance in Bangladesh is the Tazia procession. Tazias, symbolic replicas of the mausoleum of Imam Hussein, are elaborately decorated and carried through the streets accompanied by mourners chanting prayers and beating their chests in mourning. These processions often culminate in public gatherings where sermons are delivered, emphasizing the teachings of sacrifice, justice, and compassion exemplified by Imam Hussein’s stand against oppression.
Ashura serves not only as a time of mourning but also as an opportunity for self-reflection, spiritual renewal, and solidarity within the Shia Muslim community. It underscores the enduring message of resistance against tyranny and oppression and the importance of upholding principles of righteousness and justice in the face of adversity.
7. National Mourning Day
National Mourning Day in Bangladesh, observed on August 15th each year, commemorates the assassination of the country’s founding father, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, along with most of his family members, in 1975. This tragic event marked a significant turning point in Bangladesh’s history, leading to political instability and shaping the nation’s socio-political landscape for years to come.
On National Mourning Day, Bangladeshis pay homage to Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, reflecting on his contributions to the country’s independence and development. Official ceremonies, including flag-hoisting, wreath-laying at his mausoleum in Tungipara, and moments of silence, are observed across the nation. Additionally, special prayers and remembrance events are held in mosques, temples, and other places of worship.
The day serves as a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and countless others during Bangladesh’s struggle for independence. It also prompts reflection on the values of democracy, unity, and peace, encouraging citizens to uphold the ideals for which he fought. National Mourning Day is a time for solemn reflection, national unity, and a renewed commitment to building a prosperous and harmonious Bangladesh in honor of its visionary leader.
8. Janmashtami
Janmashtami, also known as Krishna Janmashtami, is a vibrant Hindu festival celebrated in Bangladesh, commemorating the birth of Lord Krishna, an incarnation of the Hindu deity Vishnu. It typically falls on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) in the Hindu calendar month of Bhadrapada, which usually corresponds to August or September in the Gregorian calendar.
In Bangladesh, Janmashtami is observed with great enthusiasm and devotion by the Hindu community. Temples dedicated to Lord Krishna, such as the famous Dhakeshwari Temple in Dhaka, become focal points for festivities. Devotees gather to offer prayers, sing devotional songs (bhajans), and recite passages from the Bhagavad Gita, a sacred scripture that recounts Krishna’s teachings.
One of the most significant rituals of Janmashtami is the enactment of Krishna’s childhood exploits, known as the “Rasa Lila” or “Dahi Handi.” In this tradition, young boys dress up as Lord Krishna and his companions, reenacting scenes from his life, particularly his playful antics as a child. The “Dahi Handi” ceremony involves forming human pyramids to reach and break a pot filled with curd, symbolizing Krishna’s love for butter.
Janmashtami is also a time for feasting and sharing joy with family and friends. Special dishes, sweets, and delicacies are prepared, including “panchamrit,” a sweet mixture of milk, yogurt, honey, ghee, and sugar, as well as “makhana,” “chhena,” and various types of fruits.
The festival of Janmashtami serves as a reminder of Lord Krishna’s teachings of righteousness, love, and devotion, inspiring devotees to lead a life of virtue and spirituality. It fosters a sense of community, cultural pride, and religious harmony among the people of Bangladesh, celebrating the diversity and richness of the country’s cultural tapestry.
9. Language Movement Day
Language Movement Day, observed on February 21st every year in Bangladesh, commemorates the historic struggle to establish Bengali as the official language of the region. The movement culminated in the recognition of Bengali as one of the official languages of Pakistan (formerly East Pakistan, now Bangladesh) on February 21, 1952.
The significance of Language Movement Day lies in the deep cultural and linguistic identity of the Bengali people. The movement was sparked by the decision of the Pakistani government to impose Urdu as the sole official language, disregarding the linguistic diversity and heritage of East Pakistan. This sparked widespread protests and demonstrations, with students, intellectuals, and ordinary citizens coming together to demand the recognition of Bengali as a national language.
On Language Movement Day, Bangladeshis pay tribute to the language martyrs who sacrificed their lives during the protests, particularly the events of February 21, 1952, when several students were killed by the police while demonstrating for the rights of their mother tongue. The day is marked by various events, including rallies, cultural programs, seminars, and discussions, highlighting the significance of linguistic diversity, cultural heritage, and the ongoing struggle for language rights.
Language Movement Day serves as a reminder of the resilience and determination of the Bengali people to uphold their language and cultural identity. It is a time to reflect on the importance of linguistic freedom, cultural diversity, and the sacrifices made by those who fought for the recognition of Bengali as a symbol of national pride and unity.
10. Victory Day
“Victory Day” in Bangladesh commemorates the triumph of the nation in its Liberation War against Pakistan on December 16, 1971. This day holds immense significance, marking the end of the nine-month-long struggle for independence. Celebrated annually with great fervor and patriotism, Victory Day pays homage to the countless sacrifices made by the freedom fighters who valiantly fought for the country’s sovereignty. The day typically includes flag hoisting ceremonies, parades, cultural programs, and tributes to the martyrs. It serves as a reminder of Bangladesh’s resilience, unity, and the enduring spirit of its people.
11. Jumatul Bidah
“Jumatul Bidah,” also known as “Jumatul Wida,” is a significant observance in Bangladesh, marking the last Friday of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. It holds special importance as it precedes Eid-ul-Fitr, the festival marking the end of Ramadan. On this day, Muslims gather in mosques across the country for congregational prayers and sermons. It’s a time for reflection, supplication, and seeking forgiveness, as well as for charitable acts and communal solidarity. The day is marked with spiritual fervor and a sense of anticipation for the joyous festivities of Eid-ul-Fitr, which follows shortly after.
12. Vijaya dashami
“Vijaya Dashami” in Bangladesh, also known as “Durga Puja,” is a vibrant Hindu festival celebrated with immense enthusiasm and fervor. It usually falls in the month of Ashwin (September-October) according to the Hindu lunar calendar. The festival commemorates the victory of the goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. In Bangladesh, especially in areas with significant Hindu populations, elaborate pandals (temporary structures) are erected, depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, and beautifully crafted idols of Durga and other deities are worshipped with great devotion. The festival is marked by colorful processions, cultural events, music, dance, and feasting. It not only holds religious significance but also fosters communal harmony as people from different backgrounds come together to celebrate.
13. Bangabandhu Homecoming Day
“Bangabandhu Homecoming Day” is a significant event in the history of Bangladesh, commemorating the return of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, popularly known as “Bangabandhu,” from captivity in Pakistan on January 10, 1972. Following Bangladesh’s independence in 1971, Bangabandhu, the founding father of the nation, was arrested and imprisoned in Pakistan during the Liberation War. His release and return to Bangladesh marked a pivotal moment of triumph and hope for the newly independent nation. On this day, Bangladeshis pay tribute to Bangabandhu’s leadership, sacrifices, and vision for the country’s progress and prosperity. Various events, including rallies, seminars, and cultural programs, are organized across the country to honor his legacy and celebrate the resilience of the Bangladeshi people. Bangabandhu Homecoming Day holds immense emotional and historical significance, symbolizing the dawn of a new era of freedom and democracy in Bangladesh.
14. Christmas
In Bangladesh, Christmas is celebrated by the Christian community with joy and fervor, although it’s a minority religion in the predominantly Muslim country. The celebration typically includes special church services, prayers, carol singing, and gatherings with family and friends. Christian homes and churches are often adorned with colorful decorations, including lights, Christmas trees, and nativity scenes depicting the birth of Jesus Christ. Traditional Christmas foods such as cakes, puddings, and special dishes are prepared and shared. Despite being a minority holiday, Christmas in Bangladesh is marked by a spirit of love, peace, and goodwill among all communities, reflecting the universal message of joy and hope associated with the birth of Jesus Christ.
15. Durga Puja
“Durga Puja” in Bangladesh is one of the most significant Hindu festivals celebrated with immense devotion and grandeur. It typically occurs in the month of Ashwin (September-October) according to the Hindu lunar calendar. The festival honors the goddess Durga, the embodiment of divine feminine power, and commemorates her victory over the buffalo demon Mahishasura.
In Bangladesh, Durga Puja is celebrated with elaborate rituals and festivities. Pandals (temporary structures) are constructed, often adorned with intricate decorations and colorful lights, where beautifully crafted idols of Durga and her divine companions are worshipped. The festival spans over several days, during which devout Hindus offer prayers, perform rituals, and participate in cultural events, including music, dance, and drama.
Durga Puja is not only a religious observance but also a time for social gatherings and community bonding. People from all walks of life, irrespective of their religious affiliations, join in the celebrations, fostering communal harmony and unity. The festival symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and the victory of righteousness, instilling a sense of joy, hope, and positivity among the devotees.
16. Saraswati Puja
“Saraswati Puja” in Bangladesh is a revered Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of Goddess Saraswati, the deity of knowledge, wisdom, and the arts. Typically celebrated during the spring season, Saraswati Puja holds significant cultural and educational importance in Bangladesh.
During Saraswati Puja, elaborate arrangements are made in homes, educational institutions, and community spaces to worship the goddess. Idols of Saraswati, adorned with flowers and traditional attire, are installed, and devotees offer prayers, chants, and hymns seeking blessings for academic success, creativity, and wisdom.
Students, teachers, and artists participate in the festivities, paying homage to Saraswati to invoke her blessings for intellectual prowess and artistic endeavors. Educational institutions organize special ceremonies, cultural programs, and competitions as part of the celebration.
Saraswati Puja transcends religious boundaries, with people from diverse backgrounds joining in the festivities, emphasizing the importance of education and culture in the societal fabric of Bangladesh. The festival embodies the spirit of learning, creativity, and enlightenment, fostering unity and harmony among communities.
17. Shaheed Day
“Shaheed Day” in Bangladesh, also known as “Language Martyrs’ Day” or “Amar Ekushey,” is not specifically associated with Hinduism but holds deep significance for all Bangladeshis, regardless of religious affiliation. Observed on February 21st, Shaheed Day commemorates the sacrifices made by Bengali-speaking people during the Language Movement of 1952.
During this movement, Bengali-speaking students and activists protested against the imposition of Urdu as the sole official language of Pakistan. The peaceful demonstrations were met with violence from the authorities, resulting in the death of several protesters who came to be known as “language martyrs.”
Shaheed Day is marked by various commemorative events, including rallies, cultural programs, and poetry readings, paying homage to the martyrs and reaffirming the importance of linguistic and cultural identity for the people of Bangladesh.
While Hindu communities in Bangladesh may not observe Shaheed Day from a religious perspective, they actively participate in honoring the memory of the language martyrs, reflecting the unity and resilience of the nation against oppression and injustice.
18. International Mother Language Day
“International Mother Language Day” is a globally recognized observance celebrated on February 21st every year. In Bangladesh, this day holds profound significance as it commemorates the sacrifices made during the Language Movement of 1952. On this day, Bengali-speaking students and activists protested against the imposition of Urdu as the sole official language of Pakistan, resulting in the loss of lives of several demonstrators who came to be known as “language martyrs.”
In 1999, UNESCO declared February 21st as International Mother Language Day to promote linguistic and cultural diversity worldwide and to honor the memory of those who fought for language rights. In Bangladesh, the day is marked by various events, including rallies, cultural programs, and discussions, to celebrate the Bengali language, also known as Bangla, and to reaffirm its importance in national identity and heritage.
International Mother Language Day in Bangladesh is a reminder of the struggles for linguistic rights and serves as a catalyst for promoting multilingualism, tolerance, and understanding among communities globally.
19. March equinox
The March equinox, also known as the vernal equinox, occurs around March 20th and marks the beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere, including Bangladesh. During this equinox, day and night are approximately equal in length all over the world. In Bangladesh, the March equinox heralds the transition from the cooler winter months to the warmer and more vibrant season of spring. It’s a time when nature begins to awaken, with flowers blooming, trees budding, and crops being planted. The March equinox holds cultural significance in Bangladesh, often celebrated with various traditional festivals and rituals that symbolize renewal, growth, and the promise of new beginnings.
20. Pahela Baishakh
“Pahela Baishakh” is the traditional Bengali New Year celebrated in Bangladesh with great enthusiasm and festivity. Observed on April 14th or 15th, Pahela Baishakh marks the beginning of the Bengali calendar year. The celebration transcends religious and ethnic boundaries, bringing together people from all walks of life to welcome the new year with joy and optimism.
The day typically begins with colorful processions known as “Mongol Shobhajatra,” featuring traditional music, dance, and vibrant floats depicting various themes. People dress in traditional attire, with women wearing saris adorned with flowers, while men don panjabis or kurta pajamas. Markets and streets are adorned with festive decorations, and traditional sweets and delicacies are prepared and shared among friends and family.
Pahela Baishakh is also marked by cultural programs, fairs, and cultural performances, including folk music and dance, to showcase the rich heritage of Bangladesh. The celebration fosters a sense of unity, solidarity, and cultural pride among Bangladeshis, emphasizing the importance of tradition and community in their lives.
