Holidays are a time for celebration, reflection, and remembrance. In Bangladesh, a country steeped in history and culture, public holidays play a significant role in the lives of its people.
These holidays surround various events, from religious festivals to commemorations of historical milestones. In this guide, we will explore the public holidays observed in Bangladesh.
All Govt Holidays In Bangladesh
Bangladesh boasts a multitude of public holidays, each holding a special place in the hearts of its citizens. These holidays are celebrated based on three different calendars: the Bengali traditional calendar (Banggabda), the Islamic calendar, and the English calendar.
This unique blend of calendars ensures that the people of Bangladesh have a rich tapestry of celebrations throughout the year.
National Holidays
National holidays in Bangladesh are a time for the nation to unite in unity and pride. Some of the most significant national holidays are included below.
- Language Martyrs’ Day (21 February): International Mother Language Day commemorates the sacrifices made during the Bengali Language Movement of 1952, a pivotal moment in preserving Bengali as the national language.
- Mujib’s Birthday & Children’s Day (17 March): Celebrated in honor of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s birthday, the founder of Bangladesh, this day also doubles as National Children’s Day.
- Independence Day (26 March): The proclamation of independence and the beginning of the Liberation War is a pivotal moment in Bangladesh’s history.
- Bengali New Year’s Day (14 April): Known as Pôhela Bôishakh, this holiday marks the start of the Bengali calendar year with vibrant festivities and cultural events.
- May Day (1 May): International Workers’ Solidarity Day celebrates workers’ contributions to the nation’s progress.
- National Day of Mourning (15 August): A solemn occasion commemorating the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
- Victory Day (16 December): Celebrates Pakistan’s surrender and the Liberation War’s conclusion.
Religious Holidays
Bangladesh is home to people of various faiths, and religious holidays are integral to the nation’s cultural fabric. Here are the religious holidays celebrated in the country.
Islamic Holidays
Some Islamic holidays are considered as Hijri Calendar. All the Islamic holidays are provided below.
- Ashura: Observing the death of the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (SM).
- Eid-e-Miladun-Nabi: Marking the birth of the Prophet Muhammad (SM).
- Eid ul-Fitr: Celebrating the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting.
- Eid ul-Adha: Commemorating the willingness of Ibrahim (A) to sacrifice his son.
Hindu Holidays
There are two Hindu holidays in Bangladesh considered as Govt holidays. These are included below.
- Krishna Janmashtami: Honoring the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu.
- Durga Puja: Celebrating the victory of goddess Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura.
Christian Holidays
There are also Christian Holidays which is Chrismas Day, considered Bangladesh public holiday.
- Christmas Day: Observing the birth of Jesus Christ.
Buddhist Holidays
Like Christian holidays, Buddha’s birthday is considered a public holiday in Bangladesh.
- Buddha’s Birthday: The birth of Prince Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism.
Bangladesh National Holidays
In addition to the major holidays, Bangladesh also observes some significant partial holidays or national days. These are given below.
- Genocide Remembrance Day (25 March): Commemorates the Bengali Genocide 1971.
- Armed Forces Day (21 November): Marks when Bangladesh’s liberation war forces launched a coordinated offensive against the Pakistani Army in 1971.
- Martyred Intellectuals Day (14 December): Honors the Bengali intellectuals who lost their lives during the 1971 Liberation War.
FAQs
- How are public holidays determined in Bangladesh?
Ans: Public holidays in Bangladesh are based on the Bengali traditional calendar, Islamic calendar, and English calendar.
- Which is the most significant national holiday in Bangladesh?
Ans: Victory Day on 16 December is often considered the most significant national holiday, marking the culmination of Bangladesh’s struggle for independence.
Final Words
Bangladesh’s public holidays reflect its rich cultural diversity, history, and religious harmony. These celebrations not only provide moments of joy and reflection but also serve as a reminder of the nation’s resilience and the enduring spirit of its people.