Christmas today

The Christians of Bangladesh, as elsewhere in the world, celebrate Christmas today in commemoration of the birth of Jesus Christ.

Christmas symbolises the day that God entered the world of men through his son, Jesus. But it is also a celebration of rebirth, of new beginnings, of forgiveness and peace as the new year approaches. It is an occasion for Christians to renew their relationship with God and with their fellow men.

The day's festive activities include the decoration of Christmas trees, special church prayers, the distribution of gifts by Santa Claus to children, family gatherings and a Christmas day feast.

Christmas day is a public holiday. Tight security measures have been taken throughout the city and at divisional and district headquarters to ensure peaceful celebrations.

Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia greeted the Christian community of Bangladesh and said that Jesus Christ had worked for establishing humanity and peace.

In a message of greeting, President Professor Dr Iajuddin Ahmed said the ideals and sacrifice of Jesus Christ inspired the people to follow the path of peace and welfare.

Sheikh Hasina, leader of the opposition in Parliament, offered a message of tolerance on the occasion of Christmas, saying that everyone has the right to observe their religion irrespective of caste and creed. She wished for the well being of Christians in Bangladesh and around the world.

Bikalpa Dhara Bangladesh (BDB) President and former president A Q M Badruddoza Chowdhury, Anwar Hossain Manju, president of Jatiya Party (Monju), the Bangladesh Christian Association, the Bangladesh Inter-Religious Writer and Journalist Association, the Bangladesh Hindu-Bouddha-Christian Oikya Parishad, and the Sylhet Division Development Action Council all offered greetings to the Christian community, wishing them a merry Christmas.

Archbishop Michael Rosario, head of the Christian community, said "Jesus came into the world to bring peace. On this occasion, I pray that God will bless Bangladesh."

The Dhaka Sheraton will hold a Children's Party today in the Marble Room from 10:30am to 12:30pm, featuring a party with Santa Claus, a puppet show, a magic show and a live animal zoo.

Bangladesh Television, Bangladesh Betar, as well as private TV channels will broadcast special Christmas day programmes, while national dailies will publish supplements highlighting the significance of today's holiday.