According to Christian belief, the God entered the world of men through his Son, Jesus Christ, on Christmas Day.
Christians will offer special prayers in churches on the occasion as it is one of the most important days of the year for them.
It is also a celebration of rebirth, a new beginning, forgiveness and peace as the New Year approaches. It is an occasion for the Christians to renew their relationship with the God and their fellow humans.
The celebrations start on the Christmas eve with singing carols in public places like lobbies, restaurants and lounges.
The day is a public holiday.
The day's celebrations also include decoration of Christmas trees with colourful lights, distribution of gifts by Santa Claus to children, family gatherings, feasts and special church prayers.
Security measures have been beefed up in the capital and elsewhere in the country deploying adequate police and Rapid Action Battalion personnel to ensure peaceful celebrations of Christmas.
Bangladesh Television and Bangladesh Betar as well as private TV channels will put up special programmes, while national dailies publish supplements highlighting the significance of the day.
Sonargaon and Ruposhi Bangla hotels and other posh hotels in the capital will offer special lunch and dinner and Christmas party.
President Zillur Rahman, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and opposition leader Khaleda Zia greeted the people of the Christian community and wished them all the best.
President Zillur, in his message, said Jesus Christ is one of the greatest men of the world who came in different ages to lead the mankind towards the path of welfare and truth.
He praised the role of the Christian community in the development of education and society in the country.
The Prime Minister said establishing peace and justice in the world was one of the goals of Jesus Christ. “Jesus Christ sacrificed his life for the hapless and hungry people,” she said.
In her message, Hasina called upon the Christian community and all irrespective of cast and creed to come forward for development of the country.
Khaleda Zia, in her message, said the essence of all religions is peace and welfare of mankind. The greatest Jesus Christ had inspired his followers to establish truth and justice.
Meanwhile, the reception programme, scheduled for Tuesday afternoon at Bangabhaban on the occasion of Christmas, has been postponed due to unavoidable circumstances.
Source: unbconnect
