Public holidays in Bangladesh

Public holidays in Bangladesh consist of a variety of cultural, nationalistic, and religious holidays that are legislated in Bangladesh. Bangladesh celebrates both secular and religious holidays with great enthusiasm and cultural festivity. The government of Bangladesh approves the list of national holidays for each year, which includes both fixed and variable dates, particularly for Islamic holidays that depend on the lunar calendar.

Overview

Bangladesh, a predominantly Muslim country, observes several Islamic holidays as well as holidays related to the liberation war and the country's independence. Additionally, there are holidays related to historical events, seasonal changes, and cultural festivities that are widely celebrated across the nation.

Major Public Holidays

Eid-ul-Fitr

Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. It is one of the most significant religious holidays in Bangladesh, celebrated with prayers, feasts, and family gatherings. The date of Eid-ul-Fitr varies according to the Islamic lunar calendar.

Eid-ul-Adha

Eid-ul-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. It is observed with the slaughtering of animals, and the meat is distributed among family, friends, and the poor. Like Eid-ul-Fitr, its date varies each year.

Independence Day

Independence Day is celebrated on March 26th, marking the country's declaration of independence from Pakistan in 1971. The day is observed with parades, cultural programs, and discussions on the history of the liberation war.

Victory Day

Victory Day is observed on December 16th to commemorate the victory of the allied forces over the Pakistani army in 1971, leading to the creation of Bangladesh. The day is celebrated with military parades, cultural events, and the laying of wreaths at memorials.

Pohela Boishakh

Pohela Boishakh is the Bengali New Year, celebrated on April 14th. It is one of the most colorful and widely observed cultural holidays in Bangladesh, marked by traditional music, dance, fairs, and processions.

Language Martyrs' Day

Language Martyrs' Day or International Mother Language Day is observed on February 21st to honor the martyrs of the 1952 Language Movement, who died advocating for the recognition of Bangla as one of the two national languages of then Pakistan. It is a day of remembrance and cultural significance.

Other Public Holidays

In addition to the major holidays, Bangladesh observes several other national and optional holidays, including Durga Puja for the Hindu community, Christmas Day for the Christian community, and Buddha Purnima for the Buddhist community. The government also declares public holidays for general elections and significant national events.

Legal Framework

The Ministry of Public Administration in Bangladesh is responsible for declaring public holidays. The list of holidays is published in the official gazette and is subject to change based on the sighting of the moon for Islamic holidays or other significant reasons.

Cultural Impact

Public holidays in Bangladesh are not only times for celebration and religious observance but also play a significant role in promoting national unity and cultural heritage. They offer a glimpse into the country's diverse cultural fabric and traditions.