President to say Eid prayers at Bangabhaban, not Eidgah

Senior Staff Reporter Published: 30 March 2025, 08:11 PM
President to say Eid prayers at Bangabhaban, not Eidgah
The 2024 BSS file photo shows President Mohammed Shahabuddin saying Eid-ul-Fitr prayers at the National Eidgah.

President Mohammed Shahabuddin will not go to the National Eidgah to say Eid-ul-Fitr prayers this year. Instead, he will say his prayers at Bangabhaban.

Religious Affairs Adviser AFM Khalid Hossain made this announcement during the National Moon Sighting Committee meeting at the Islamic Foundation in Baitul Mukarram on Sunday evening, March 30, in response to journalists' questions.

The Shawwal moon was sighted in the country on Sunday evening, marking the beginning of the holy Eid-ul-Fitr, which will be celebrated on Monday, March 31. 

While the President traditionally says the Eid prayers at the National Eidgah, he has refrained from attending public events since the mass uprising on August 5, following the fall of the Awami League government.

When asked where the President and the Chief Adviser would say their prayers, Khalid confirmed, "The Chief Adviser will pray at the National Eidgah, while the President will say his prayers at Bangabhaban."

The main Eid congregation will take place at the National Eidgah at 8:30am. If weather conditions or other emergencies arise, the prayers will be moved to Baitul Mukarram at 9:00am. 

Khalid assured that all preparations are complete, and the country will celebrate Eid with religious devotion and joy, God willing.

Regarding Eid observance in line with Saudi Arabia, Khalid said, "There has been much debate over aligning Eid with Saudi Arabia's sighting. We fast and celebrate Eid based on our moon sighting. We aim to avoid any controversies surrounding this issue."