The country's Christian community is celebrating Christmas Day today as elsewhere across the world, commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ.

Christmas, the biggest religious festival of the Christians, is the celebration of rebirth, new beginning, forgiveness and peace, and renewing relationship with God and human beings.

Decoration of Christmas trees with colourful lights, offering special prayers, distribution of gifts among children and exchange of pleasantries are the main features of the day's festivities.

Christmas carols and hymns will be sung before and after the prayer sessions at the churches.

President Abdul Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina issued separate messages on the Christmas eve.

In his message, the president said Bangladesh is a country of communal harmony where people are tied with the bond of love and friendship.

He called upon all to work together to build a happy, prosperous and non-communal Bangladesh.

The premier said Bangladesh is a country of communal harmony where people of all religions enjoy full freedom of practicing their respective religious rituals.

She hoped that this Christmas would further strengthen the relations between the Christians and the people of other communities.

President Hamid will exchange greetings with members of the Christian community at the Bangabhaban on the occasion of Christmas Day today.

Archbishop of Bangladesh Patrick D Rozario, ambassadors and representatives from foreign missions, distinguished persons of the Christian community, religious leaders and professionals will join the reception.

A group of singers will perform the Christmas carol at the programme.

Later, the president will cut a Christmas cake with members of the Christian community.

The state-run Bangladesh Television, Bangladesh Betar and different private TV channels and radio stations will air special programmes highlighting the significance of the day.