Leaders call for unity across communities at Janmashtami procession in Chattogram

BNP leader Rumeen reminds everyone that Hindus, Christians, Buddhists and Muslims all share the country

Calls for religious harmony have resonated at the opening of the Janmashtami procession in Chattogram, as devotees marked the birth anniversary of the Hindu deity Sri Krishna with prayers, music, and festivities.

The rally began at Andarkilla intersection on Saturday morning, winding through key city roads before ending at JM Sen Hall. Attendance was visibly smaller than in previous years, organisers said.

Speaking at the inauguration, Liberation War Affairs Advisor Faruk E Azam urged all communities to strengthen national unity.

“In the coming days of celebration, may people of every faith in Chattogram come together to give us courage and strength for the future,” he said, adding that the next elected government would address the community’s demands.

BNP leader and former MP Rumeen Farhana echoed the appeal, reminding participants: “Above all is humanity. This country belongs to Hindus, Christians, Buddhists and Muslims. If we hold onto this truth, we can achieve the golden Bangladesh we dream of.”

Chattogram Mayor Shahadat Hossain inaugurated the rally, while spiritual blessings were offered by Swami Rabishwarananda Puri Maharaj. Trustee of the Hindu Welfare Trust Dipak Kumar Palit also joined. Balloons were floated and devotees set off, dancing and playing drums along the route.

Festivities will continue with a women’s gathering, a grand religious conference led by BNP Standing Committee Member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, and a 48-hour Maha Nam Sankirtan. Prasad will be distributed daily. Devotees believe fasting on Janmashtami absolves sins and brings fortune, health and divine blessings.