Dhaka: Mentioning that the sense of unity and secularism is the long-practicing characteristics of the people of Bangladesh, President Abdul Hamid on Thursday said a religion belongs to a community but a festival belongs to all.

‘Durga Puja or other festivals are derived from the depth of tradition and culture of the Bengal. That’s why a festival is never confined to the circle of a religion. A religion belongs to a community but a festival belongs to all. The sense of unity and secularism is the characteristics of the people of the country,’ he said.

The President was talking to media people during a reception he hosted to members of the Hindu community at Bangabhaban on the occasion of a Durga Puja. President exchanged greetings and pleasantries with them during the reception. Religious Affairs Minister Principal Matiur Rahman was present.

The President underscored the need for playing a role by all from one’s respective position for the national development upholding the spirit of the country’s communal harmony and heritage.

‘Bangladesh is a country of communal harmony. Here the people of all religions are practicing their respective religious rituals and social programmes peacefully and amid fanfare,’ he added.

Observing that people’s welfare is the main message of all religions, Abdul Hamid hoped that Durga Puja would bring cordiality and harmony for all irrespective of religion, caste and creed.

Hindu religious personalities and leaders of various puja committees joined the reception.

Indian High Commissioner in Dhaka Pankaj Saran, Nepalese Ambassador Hari Kumar Shrestha and distinguished personalities of the Hindu community also joined the functions.