Bangladesh Celebrates Eid in Spirit of Deepening Interreligious Harmony

Leaders in Bangladesh exchanged greetings as the nation celebrated Eid-ul-Fitr, with people of different faiths sharing in the joy of one of the country’s most significant religious festivals.

Archbishop Bejoy N. D’Cruze of Dhaka, who also serves as president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Bangladesh, extended warm greetings to the Muslim community.

In a video message delivered in Bangla, the archbishop highlighted the convergence of Eid and the Christian season of Lent this year, noting that both invite believers to deepen their relationship with God through fasting, prayer, sacrifice, and acts of charity. He also prayed for peace in the world and for stronger bonds of harmony among peoples and nations.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, in his message, described Ramadan as a time of sacrifice, piety, and self-restraint. He said Eid-ul-Fitr carries a message of unity, compassion, and joy, and expressed hope that its blessings would reach every household across the country.

Across cities, towns, and villages, Muslims gathered at mosques and open grounds for early morning prayers. Soon after, homes were opened wide to neighbors, friends, and colleagues from different religious traditions. It is a common sight during Eid for people of various faiths to visit one another, exchange greetings, and share festive meals, gestures that go beyond courtesy and reflect deep-rooted bonds of friendship.

Across cities, towns, and villages, Muslims gathered at mosques and open grounds for early morning prayers. Soon after, homes were opened wide to neighbors, friends, and colleagues from different religious traditions. It is a common sight during Eid for people of various faiths to visit one another, exchange greetings, and share festive meals, gestures that go beyond courtesy and reflect deep-rooted bonds of friendship.

Many Hindu, Buddhist, and Christian families actively take part in the celebrations. In numerous households, special Eid dishes are prepared even by non-Muslim families, who then share these with their Muslim neighbors. Such practices have become cherished traditions, especially in mixed communities where families of different faiths have lived side by side for generations.

University student Kabbo Rozario described how he visits his friend Nayan Islam’s home every Eid, where he is welcomed like a family member. “We sit together, share meals, and celebrate,” he said, adding that Nayan also visits his home during Christmas. “These exchanges are not just social, they are part of our lives and identity.”

Niloy Gomes shared a similar experience, noting that his Christian family prepares Eid food each year. “Even though we are not Muslims, we celebrate with our neighbors. It brings joy and strengthens our unity,” he said. For him, such shared celebrations are a living expression of harmony that transcends religious boundaries.

As Bangladesh celebrates Eid, these simple acts of sharing and respect show the country’s strong tradition of living peacefully and in harmony.