Eid-ul-Fitr today

After a month of fasting and prayers during Ramadan, Muslims across the country are celebrating Eid-ul-Fitr today (Saturday, March 21) with due religious solemnity and festivity.

The main Eid congregation in the capital will be held at 8:30am at the National Eidgah Ground. In case of adverse weather, the main jamaat will instead take place at 9:00am at Baitul Mukarram National Mosque.

The prayer will be led by Baitul Mukarram’s khatib, Mufti Muhammad Abdul Malek. In his absence, Islamic Foundation mufassir Dr. Mawlana Md. Abu Saleh Patwary will serve as the alternate imam.

President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman are expected to join the main congregation at the National Eidgah Ground.

According to Dhaka South City Corporation, arrangements have been made for around 35,000 worshippers at the main venue, including separate facilities for approximately 3,500 female worshippers, with dedicated entry points, ablution, and prayer spaces. Medical teams and necessary safety measures have also been ensured.

Security has been strengthened in and around the Eidgah area, with archways, metal detectors, and CCTV surveillance in place. Members of law enforcement agencies, along with intelligence personnel, will be on duty.

Meanwhile, five Eid congregations will be held at Baitul Mukarram National Mosque at 7:00am, 8:00am, 9:00am, 10:00am, and 10:45am.

Additional congregations will also be held at various locations across the capital, including the South Plaza of the National Parliament and Dhaka University Central Mosque at 8:00am.

The government has declared a seven-day public holiday to mark the occasion. National flags have been hoisted and decorative lighting installed at important government and private establishments. Special meals have also been arranged at hospitals, prisons, orphanages, and elderly care centers.

On the occasion of Eid, underprivileged children have been given free access to various recreational and cultural sites in the capital, including children’s parks, museums, Ahsan Manzil, and Lalbagh Fort.