Muslims in Bangladesh are observing Eid-ul-Azha with solemnity and a sense of sacrifice on Monday, beginning with Eid congregations nationwide and followed by the sacrificial offering of animals in the name of Allah.

This day, the 10th of Zilhajj on the lunar calendar, marks the commemoration of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) offering to sacrifice his beloved son Hazrat Ismail (AS), who willingly submitted to his father’s divine command.

The main Eid congregation was held at the National Eidgah on the High Court premises in the capital starting at 7:30am.

Three Eid congregations were held at the Baitul Mukarram national mosque until 9:00am, with additional congregations scheduled for 10:00am and 10:45am.

The country’s largest Eid congregation, the 197th since the first in 1828, took place at 9:00am at the historic Sholakia ground in Kishoreganj.

A three-day public holiday began on Sunday in observance of Eid-ul-Azha. President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina conveyed their greetings to the nation and Muslims worldwide in separate messages.

Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Secretary General of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, also extended his congratulations to the countrymen, party leaders, activists, and the Muslim community on the occasion of Eid.

President Mohammed Shahabuddin will host a reception for government officials, diplomats, and members of the elite society at Bangabhaban on Monday from 10:30am to 12:00 noon to mark Eid-ul-Azha.

In preparation for the occasion, Dhaka South City Corporation has planned to remove sacrificial animal waste within 24 hours, while the North City Corporation aims to complete waste removal within six hours, starting from 2:00pm on Eid day.

State-run Bangladesh Television, Bangladesh Betar, and other TV channels and radio stations are airing special Eid programs to mark the festive occasion.