The holy Eid-ul-Azha, second biggest religious festival of the Muslims, is being celebrated across the country today (July 10, 2022).

Eid-ul-Azha is celebrated on the 10th of Zilhajj month of the Islamic calendar as Hazrat Ibrahim (AS), on this day, some 4,500 years ago, offered to sacrifice his beloved son Hazrat Ismail (AS), who willingly submitted to the will of his father to please Allah.

But the Almighty in His benign mercy spared Hazrat Ismail (AS) and instead sent a ram to be sacrificed.

Photo: Prabir Das

To commemorate this historic event, Muslims across the country are offering prayers in congregations and sacrificing animals in the name of Almighty Allah.

They are offering munajat seeking divine blessings for peace, progress and prosperity of the country as well as welfare of the Muslim Ummah.

President M Abdul Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina issued separate messages, greeting Muslims in Bangladesh and all over the world on the occasion of the Eid-ul-Azha.

Photo: Prabir Das

The main Eid congregation was held at the National Eidgah near the High Court Bhaban in Dhaka at 8am, said Islamic Foundation.

Eid congregation was held at the historic Sholakia ground in Kishoreganj this year after a break of two years due to Covid-19 pandemic.

A total of five Eid jamaats are being held at the Baitul Mukarram National Mosque.

Photo: Prabir Das

The first Jamaat was held at 7am. The second Eid jamaat was at 8am, the third one at 9am, the fourth at 10am, while the fifth jamaat at 10:45am.

Organisers said adequate water supply and security arrangements have already been made at the Baitul Mukaram National Mosque to facilitate the Eid-ul-Azha prayers.

Eid jamaat was held at the South Plaza of the National Parliament at 8am while Chief Whip of Parliament, whips, cabinet members, lawmakers and Jatiya Sangsad Secretariat officials, and employees joined the jamaat there.

In the Dhaka University, two Eid jamaats were held at university central mosque – Masjidul Jamiya – at 8am and 9am.

Photo: Titu Das

Adequate security measures have been taken for peaceful and smooth celebration of the holy Eid-ul-Azha. The law enforcement agencies were also asked to ensure smooth movement of vehicles on highways, waterways and train routes.

State-run Bangladesh Television and Bangladesh Betar as well as other TV channels and radio stations would broadcast special programmes on the occasion of the Eid-ul-Azha.

On the day, special food will be served at government hospitals, prisons, orphanages, safe homes and shelters.

On July 7, the government issued a circular with eight instructions, including maintaining the health rules, during the prayers.