The holy Ashura, commemorating the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hossain (RA), grandson of Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH), will be observed in the country on October 1.

In a meeting yesterday evening, the National Moon Sighting Committee made the decision as the new moon of Muharram, the first month of Hijri 1439, appeared in the country yesterday, said an official release.

The meeting was held in the Islamic Foundation office at the Baitul Mukarram National Mosque with Religious Affairs Secretary Anisur Rahman in the chair.

The meeting decided that Hijri 1439 would commence tomorrow, and the 10th day of Muharram would fall on October 01 as the new moon was sighted yesterday.

Entrapped by Yazid's forces on the 10th Muharram in the year of Hijri 61, Hazrat Imam Hossain (RA), his family members and close relations embraced martyrdom at Karbala to uphold the spirit of Islam and the teachings of the prophet.

The government and different religious organisations planned various programmes to observe the day in a befitting manner. The day will be a public holiday.

Bangladesh Betar, Bangladesh Television and private TV channels will air special programmes, while newspapers publish supplements highlighting the significance of the day.