President, PM join Eid prayers at National Eidgah with huge turnout

A large number of worshippers gathered at the National Eidgah Ground in the capital as the main congregation of Eid-ul-Fitr was held on Saturday morning.

The jamaat took place at 8:30am at the ground adjacent to the High Court, with thousands attending despite light drizzle.

President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman joined the prayers, along with Chief Justice Zubayer Rahman Chowdhury, cabinet members, political leaders, and people from all walks of life.

The prayer was led by Baitul Mukarram National Mosque’s khatib Mufti Mohammad Abdul Malek, while Islamic Foundation’s Mawlana Md. Abu Saleh Patwary was on standby as the alternate imam.

Arrangements were made by Dhaka City Corporation to accommodate around 35,000 worshippers at the venue. People began arriving early in the morning from different parts of the capital, many dressed in traditional attire and carrying prayer mats. Children also joined the congregation alongside their families.

Security was tightened around the Eidgah, with archways installed at entry points and worshippers allowed to enter in an orderly manner.

Separate facilities were arranged for female worshippers, including designated prayer areas, ablution system, mobile toilets, and primary medical services.

Law enforcement agencies enforced strict security measures, with traffic restrictions and barricades in place at key area including Paltan intersection, Matsya Bhaban, Bangabazar, and Doel Chattar.

Meanwhile, the Islamic Foundation announced that five Eid congregations would be held at Baitul Mukarram National Mosque, with the first at 7:00am and the last at 10:45am.