Christmas today

The Christian communities in the country and elsewhere across the world will celebrate the Christmas Day today, commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ.

Christmas, the biggest religious festival of the Christians, is the celebration of rebirth, new beginning, forgiveness and peace, and renewing relationship with God and human beings.

Decoration of Christmas trees with colourful lights, offering special prayers, distribution of gifts among children and exchange of pleasantries are the main features of the day's festivities.

Christmas carols and hymns will be sung before and after the prayer sessions at churches.

President Abdul Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina have issued separate messages on the occasion.

The president, in his message, urged all to work together to build a happy, prosperous and non-communal Bangladesh.

In her message, the PM said Bangladesh is a country of communal harmony where people of all religions enjoy full freedom to practice religious rituals.

She expressed the hope that Christmas would further strengthen the relations between the Christians and the people of other communities.

President Hamid will exchange greetings with members of the Christian community at the Bangabhaban today.

The Archbishop of Bangladesh, ambassadors and representatives from foreign missions, distinguished persons of the Christian community, religious leaders and professionals will join the reception.

Bangladesh Television, Bangladesh Betar and different private TV channels and radio stations will air special programmes highlighting the significance of the day.