Muslims from all over Bangladesh are observing the Holy Ashura today (July 17) with religious fervour and solemnity, commemorating the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA), the grandson of Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him).

Today is the 10th day of the month of Muharram in Hijri calendar-1446. This day is well-known as the "Holy Ashura".
 
It is regarded as the day of Karbala, a 'mourning and heartbreaking event', which has special religious significance for the Muslim community across the globe.

Muslims across the world recall the sacrifice of Hazrat Imam Hossain (RA) along with his family members and 72 followers, who embraced martyrdom in 680 AD in the desert of Karbala on the banks of the Euphrates River in Iraq while fighting for truth and justice against the Yazid forces.

Their self-sacrifice at Karbala Maidan to uphold the great ideals of Islam, the religion of peace and harmony, is a shining example in the history of humanity.

On the eve of the holy Ashura, President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today issued separate messages, paying deep respect to Hazrat Imam Hossain (RA) and other martyrs of Karbala.

The day is a public holiday.

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

On the occasion, special prayers and discussions highlighting the significance of Holy Ashura' will be held at mosques other places concerned including Baitul Mukarram National Mosque and the Islamic Foundation (IF) in the country.

BDST: 0925 HRS, JULY 17, 2024
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