Due to the nationwide flood situation, the Bangladesh Puja Celebration Council will reduce the budget for this year's Janmashtami celebrations to allocate more resources for flood relief and other assistance, according to Santosh Sharma, General Secretary of the council, reports UNB.
On Friday, Santosh Sharma shared these plans during a press briefing at Dhakeshwari National Temple, organized by the Bangladesh Puja Celebration Council and the Metropolitan Public Puja Celebration Committee.
In a written statement, Sharma noted that this year's Janmashtami will be observed under different circumstances. A relief cell has been formed to assist flood victims, and the decision has been made to cut expenses while maintaining the religious sanctity of the event. Expenses related to lighting and other non-essential decorations that do not impact the worship will be minimized.
Sharma also acknowledged the voluntary support for the protection of Dhakeshwari National Temple. He thanked various groups that have stood by them, including BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, the Islamic Shashantantra Andolon, CPB leaders, and leaders of the anti-discrimination student movement. He highlighted an unprecedented display of solidarity from political party members and student activists in the protection of temples, homes, and businesses of minorities across the country in the absence of administrative support following political changes.
This year, Dhakeshwari National Temple will host a two-day central Janmashtami festival. The celebrations will begin on August 26 at 8 AM with the traditional Geetajagya for the well-being of the nation.
Bd-pratidin English/Tanvir Raihan
