The holy Eid-e-Miladunnabi, commemorating the birth and demise of Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (SM), will be observed across the country today with due religious reverence and solemnity, report agencies.
The government has taken up elaborate programmes to mark the day with due respect. Comprehensive arrangements have also been made across the country for the peaceful observance of Eid-e-Miladunnabi.
The programmes were finalised at an inter-ministerial meeting with Religious Affairs Adviser AFM Khalid Hossain in the chair.
Meanwhile, the president and the chief adviser issued separate messages highlighting the significance of the day.
In his message, President Mohammed Shahabuddin said the holy Eid-e-Miladunnabi is a sacred and glorious day for the Muslims of the whole world.
He said on this glorious day, the Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH) came into the world, bringing with him a divine message of mercy, peace, and salvation for all mankind.
His arrival marked the beginning of a new era, as he illuminated the hearts and minds of people by dispelling the injustice, falsehood, and darkness that prevailed in Arab society at the time.
In his message Chief Adviser Prof Yunus said that Almighty Allah sent the Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH) as Rahmatullil Alamin-a mercy for all creation-bringing the message of peace, emancipation, progress, and overall welfare to the entire world.
He said the impeccable and timeless teachings and ideals left by the Prophet (PBUH) continue to serve as a guiding light for humanity, offering a path to liberation and enlightenment for people of every era and generation.
The chief adviser stated that in today's conflict-ridden world, true peace, justice, and global welfare can only be achieved by following the unique lifestyle, universal teachings, and Sunnah of the Prophet (PBUH).
To observe the day the national flag will be hoisted atop all government, semi-government, autonomous offices and private buildings.
As in previous years, the government will decorate important roads and key locations in the capital with national and colourful flags and banners inscribed with the Kalima Tayyiba.
The Islamic Foundation has been instructed to organise various religious and cultural programmes including Qirat, Naat recitations, poetry readings, cultural competitions and an Arabic Khutba writing contest.
The foundation will also publish a commemorative publication and arrange seminars.
Starting from 12th Rabiul Awwal, the Islamic Foundation will host a two-week-long Islamic book fair on the southern premises of the Baitul Mukarram National Mosque.
Bangladesh Television (BTV), Bangladesh Betar (Radio) and other electronic media outlets have been requested to broadcast special programmes, while newspapers are expected to publish special supplements marking the day.
Universities and all educational, cultural and religious institutions-along with the offices of the Waqf Administrator, Islamic Foundation, and Hajj Offices in Dhaka and Jeddah-have been directed to organise discussion sessions, prayer and milad gatherings, Naat recitations and quiz competitions.
These programmes will focus on the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PUBH), including Islam's messages of peace, progress, tolerance, global brotherhood, human rights, and women's dignity.
Bangladesh Shishu Academy will arrange special programmes for children, including Naat recitations, essay competitions and discussion events.
On this occasion, special meals will be served at all military and civil hospitals, prisons, orphanages, child care homes and old-age homes across the country.
Bangladesh's embassies and missions abroad will also observe the day with due solemnity and respect.
Meanwhile, the government has made comprehensive arrangements across the country for the peaceful observance of Eid-e-Miladunnabi, to be observed tomorrow.
Emphasis has been placed on ensuring smooth and secure congregations and processions, particularly in major cities such as Dhaka, Chattogram, Sylhet, Khulna and Rajshahi, to mark the auspicious occasion.
Home Adviser Lieutenant General (Retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury has ordered law enforcement agencies to maintain heightened vigilance and ensure foolproof arrangements, particularly at major mosques and other religious places where large gatherings are expected.
Enhanced surveillance and patrolling at sensitive locations have already been ensured.
Measures have also been taken for efficient crowd management to prevent any untoward incidents. The steps also stressed proper traffic regulation to ensure smooth movement of devotees.