President Mohammed Shahbuddin has called for all citizens, regardless of religion or ethnicity, to work together for the nation's progress.
"Core message of all religions is the welfare of humanity. We are all Bangladeshis, bound by a common thread," he said during a meeting with prominent Hindu figures on Sunday (13 October) at the Bangabhaban, ahead of Durga Puja and Vijayadashami celebrations.
"There is no place for majority or minority distinctions here. We are one and the same entity,” he remarked, adding that religious values must be channelled towards the betterment of the country and its people.
He further expressed confidence that the non-communal spirit, mutual unity, harmony, and brotherhood inherent in the Bengali culture would play an effective role in building a modern and prosperous Bangladesh.
Commenting on the current global situation, President Shahabuddin pointed to the devastating effects of conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war and unrest in the Middle East, which have severely impacted humanity worldwide.
These events, he noted, have also deeply influenced Bangladesh’s economy. Additionally, he highlighted the plight of those affected by floods in the country, who are struggling in dire conditions.
Urging the nation to stand by the less fortunate during these challenging times, the president called on the people to embrace the noble cause of humanitarian service. He stated that tolerance, mutual trust, and cooperation are essential to transform Bangladesh into a developed, prosperous, and equitable nation amidst the changing global landscape.
Reflecting on the country's history, President Shahabuddin underscored that Bangladesh's independence was hard-won through a bloody Liberation War in 1971.
He expressed hope that people of all religions would celebrate their festivals in an atmosphere of respect and joy.
On the occasion of Durga Puja, one of the most significant religious festivals for the Hindu community, the president extended his warmest greetings and congratulations to all Hindu citizens.
He highlighted that Durga Puja embodies the traditional heritage and culture of Bengal, and that the festival has transcended its religious significance to become a social celebration, made universal by the collective participation of all.
“Bangladesh is a land of communal harmony,” President Shahabuddin asserted, adding that this harmony is a unique feature of the country's culture.
He called for the preservation of this unity and goodwill to accelerate national progress and prosperity.
"Let this Vijayadashami be a pledge to build a progressive and peaceful society for the next generation, bound by the ties of mutual empathy, harmony, and humanitarian values," he concluded.
After delivering his message, the president exchanged pleasantries with all the guests in the Durbar Hall. His wife, Dr Rebecca Sultana, was also present, alongside the Interim Religious Affairs Adviser AFM Khalid Hossain, Adviser to the Ministry of Primary and Mass Education Professor Dr Bidhan Ranjan Roy Poddar, Justices Govinda Chandra Thakur and Bishwajit Das, members of the diplomatic corps, Hindu religious leader Srimat Swami Purnatmananda Maharaj of Ramakrishna Math and Mission, Secretary of the Hindu Religious Welfare Trust Dr Krishnendu Kumar Pal, Deputy Director Prashanta Kumar Biswas, President of the Bangladesh Puja Celebration Council Shri Basudev Dhar, General Secretary Shri Santosh Sharma, and President of the Dhaka Metropolitan Universal Puja Committee Shri Jayanta Kumar Dev, as well as General Secretary Dr Tapas Kumar Pal.
