Reflection in the Face of Difficulties: Durga Puja and Religious Harmony
Noushin Sharmily :
Durga Puja, a festival that has been celebrated in Bangladesh for centuries, stands as a testament to the nation’s rich cultural and religious tapestry. From the banks of the Buriganga River to the bustling streets of Dhaka, the rhythmic beats of the dhak (traditional drum) have long heralded the arrival of the Goddess Durga, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. According to historical records, Durga Puja was first celebrated in Dhaka during the Mughal era in 1610, when Subadar Islam Khan witnessed the celebrations on the banks of the river.
Over the centuries, the festival has evolved, intertwining religious rituals with cultural expressions. Elaborate rituals, cultural performances, and community gatherings mark the five-day celebration, which encompasses Mahalaya, Shashthi, Saptami, Ashtami, Navami, and Dashami.
However, recent years in Bangladesh have seen a disturbing trend of communal tensions and attacks during the Durga Puja celebrations. Several districts, including Netrokona and Gangachara, reported incidents of vandalism and idol desecration in 2024.
These acts not only disrupted the sanctity of the festival but also instilled fear among the Hindu community.
In response to these challenges, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus visited the historic Dhakeshwari Temple in Dhaka on September 16, 2025, to oversee preparations for the upcoming Durga Puja. During his visit, he met with Hindu religious leaders and emphasized the state’s commitment to ensuring equal rights for all citizens, irrespective of their religious affiliations. He further urged vigilance against any conspiracies that might seek to disrupt the communal harmony during the festival.
Despite these assurances, the path to lasting religious harmony requires collective effort. It is imperative for all segments of society—government officials, religious leaders, and citizens—to actively promote interfaith dialogue, mutual respect, and understanding.
The upcoming Durga Puja presents an opportunity to reaffirm the nation’s commitment to these values and to celebrate the rich diversity that defines Bangladesh.
As the festival approaches, let us remember that the essence of Durga Puja lies not just in rituals and celebrations but in fostering unity and peace among all communities. By embracing our shared values and heritage, we can ensure that the spirit of Durga Puja continues to illuminate the path toward a harmonious and inclusive Bangladesh.
(The writer is a student of Brac University and an internee of this newspaper)