Dhaka, Bangladesh (BBN) - Members of the Christian community in Bangladesh celebrated Christmas on Tuesday with much enthusiasm, festivity and religious fervor.
Christians offered special prayers in churches on the occasion as it was one of the most important days of the year for them.
It was also a celebration of rebirth, a new beginning, forgiveness and peace as the New Year approaches. It was an occasion for the Christians to renew their relationship with God and their fellow humans.
The celebrations started on the Christmas eve with singing carols in public places like lobbies, restaurants and lounges.
The day was 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 were taken 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 aired special programs, while national dailies published supplements highlighting the significance of the day.
Sonargaon and Ruposhi Bangla hotels and other posh hotels in the capital offered 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.
BBN/SSR/AD-26Dec12-10:40 am (BST)
