N’Ganj prepares for a Joyous Durga Puja celebration

Narayanganj is set to celebrate the autumnal Durga Puja with vibrant festivities as the city has made extensive preparations for the event. This year, a total of 214 mandaps will be established across the district, including 41 in Narayanganj Sadar, 31 in Fatulla, 8 in Siddhirganj, 25 at the port, 36 in Sonargaon, and 40 in Rupganj.

The district administration, led by Mohammed Mahmudul Haque, has ensured robust security measures, with the RAB, police, and army collaborating to maintain peace during the celebrations. Each mandap has received a financial allocation from the district council, including 10,000 BDT for electricity and 500 kg of rice per mandap. Additionally, support from BNP leader Tarek Rahman includes 4,000 BDT per mandap. As the festivities kick off with Mahalaya, which marks the formal beginning of Durga Puja, excitement fills the air. The celebrations will continue from October 8 through October 12, culminating in the traditional Vermilion Ceremony on the tenth day. Despite the festive spirit, the district police have identified 60 mandaps as high-risk and have implemented strict security protocols. Superintendent of Police Kumar Majumdar confirmed that three police personnel will be assigned to each of these identified mandaps, ensuring heightened safety measures throughout the celebration.

The local BNP president, Muhammad Geass Uddin, emphasized the importance of democracy and the right to vote, expressing solidarity across religious communities. He stated, “No religion should divide us; we must work together for a harmonious society.”

The president of the Narayanganj District Worship Celebration Council, Shankar Kumar, noted the collaborative efforts with local administration and political leaders to ensure a smooth and festive atmosphere. He urged everyone to participate in the Durga Puja festivities.

Prominent businessman and advisor to the Worship Celebration Council, Praveer Kumar, echoed concerns about communal harmony following political tensions earlier in the year. He expressed hope for a peaceful celebration this year.

The local BNP convener, Ed. Friendship Hussain, reinforced the message of unity, stressing that the Durga Puja celebrations signify the friendly relations between Hindus and Muslims in the community.

As the preparations unfold, the community looks forward to a joyous and harmonious Durga Puja, celebrating cultural diversity and shared values.