Diverse public participation in ‘Rath Jatra’ reflects non-communal tradition: Home Adviser

Participation of people from all walks of life in the Hindu community’s Rath Jatra is a reflection of Bangladesh’s non-communal spirit and cultural tradition, said Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury on Friday.

Speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the traditional Rath Jatra in Dhamrai, the adviser said that the fair centring Rath Jatra brings together people of all ages who exchange joy and greetings, adding, “The core message of such festivals is to promote the spirit of equality.”

Bangladesh is a country of communal harmony where people of different religions, castes, classes, and professions have been living together peacefully for ages, the adviser said.

Highlighting the government's commitment to building an inclusive and humane Bangladesh, he said, “The current interim government is working tirelessly to establish lasting peace in the country by eliminating long-standing discrimination and irregularities. Reforms are essential to address these challenges.”

The adviser urged everyone to be patient as the process of reforms continues, noting that the country’s law and order situation has significantly improved. “With the cooperation of the general public, we can make further progress in this regard,” he hoped.

Referring to Dhamrai as a hub for traditional handicrafts, Jahangir said the Dhamrai Rath Jatra is one of the most prominent Rath Jatra festivals in the country.

“The month-long handicrafts fair held alongside this festival will enrich the rural economy of the region,” he added.