Dhaka: Janmashtami, marking the birth of Lord Krishna, is being observed across the country on Sunday with due religious fervour.

According to Hindu belief, Lord Vishnu incarnated in the universe as Lord Krishna in the prison of Raja Kangsa on this day, the eighth of ‘Shukla Pakkha’ (bright fortnight) in the month of Bengali calendar Bhadra in Dwapara Yuga in order to protect ‘Dharma’ from the hands of devils.

Sri Krishna was born to Devaki and her husband Vasudeva in Mathura to which Krishna’s parents belonged.

The day is a public holiday.

Meanwhile, the President and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in separate messages greeted the members of Hindu community on the occasion of Janmashtami.

In his message, the President said Bangladesh is a country of communal harmony where people of all religions perform their own religious rituals freely.

He urged all to continue the tradition of communal harmony in the country by strengthening friendships and coordination.

In her message, the Prime Minister hoped that the ideals and teachings of Krishna will inspire his disciples to further consolidate the ties of communal harmony, friendship and fraternity.