B Mirror Report:  Holy Eid-ul-Azha, the largest religious festival of Muslims, is being observed across Bangladesh on Thursday with deep religious devotion and festive spirit.

The main Eid congregation was held at the National Eidgah at 7:30am, where President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman joined thousands of worshippers in offering prayers.

Eid prayers were also held at mosques and Eidgahs across the country in a peaceful atmosphere. Islamic scholars and khateebs delivered sermons highlighting the significance of Qurbani (sacrifice) and the values of devotion, compassion, and obedience in Islam, according to UNB.

On the occasion, both the President and the Prime Minister extended greetings to the nation. In a video message on Wednesday evening, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman said Eid-ul-Azha carries the message of sacrifice, piety, and self-purification.

He extended greetings to Muslims in Bangladesh and around the world, as well as to people of all religions and backgrounds, wishing everyone a peaceful Eid.

A seven-day government holiday began on Monday. However, healthcare workers involved in emergency and critical medical services have had their leave cancelled to ensure uninterrupted treatment services during the holiday period.

Essential services including hospitals, emergency healthcare, fire service, electricity, water, gas, internet, media, and postal operations are remaining active throughout the holiday.

Security has been significantly strengthened around the National Eidgah. Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Mosleh Uddin Ahmed said only 10 to 15 percent of police personnel in Dhaka have been granted leave due to heightened security arrangements.

Government, semi-government, and autonomous institutions across the country have been illuminated to mark the festival. State-run and private media outlets, including Bangladesh Television and Bangladesh Betar, are broadcasting special Eid programmes.

Special meals are being served at hospitals, orphanages, prisons, and child care centres to mark the occasion.

Following Eid prayers, Muslims across the country will perform Qurbani, commemorating the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who was prepared to sacrifice his son Prophet Ismail (AS) in obedience to Allah’s command. According to Islamic belief, Allah replaced Ismail (AS) with a sacrificial animal, symbolising ultimate faith and submission.