Dhaka, Bangladesh (BBN)- Muslims across the country are being observed the holy Shab-e-Barat, known as the night of fortune, tonight (Friday) with due religious fervour and devotion.
The devotees are sending the night at mosques and homes through prayer, recitation from the Holy Quran, and seeking blessings from Allah, the Almighty, for peace and progress of their families, relatives and friends as well as the nation and the Muslim Ummah.
They consider Shab-e-Barat as one of three most sacred nights and believe that on this night Almighty Allah decides the fate of all human beings fixing their 'rizq' (livelihood) for the next year.
The devotees across the country would visit graves and pray for the peace of the souls of beloved ones who are no more. Many will also visit the mazars, shrines of saints all over the country.
Traditional foods like handmade rice-bread with beef and halwa would be prepared in the afternoon in the rural and urban areas across the country today.
Many Muslims will fast on the following day. They will distribute food and sweets among the neighbours and the poor today.
Foods and money will be distributed among the destitute on the occasion.
President Abdul Hamid, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia issued separate messages felicitating Muslims on the occasion.
In his message, Hamid said the holy night opens up an opportunity for mankind to get special blessings and forgiveness of the Almighty Allah.
"I urge all to employ themselves in the work for the welfare of mankind and building the country imbued with the magnificence of holy Shab-e-Barat," Hasina said.
Khaleda Zia, in her message, said, "On this holy night, it should be our resolve that we will all work for the welfare of mankind shunning violence, jealousy, bloodshed and conflict."
Islamic Foundation and other religious organisations have outlined elaborate programmes, including discussions, Hamd, Naat, Milad, Zikr and Doa on the occasion.
Bangladesh Television, Bangladesh Betar, private television channels and radio stations will air special programmes.
The daily newspapers will publish special articles highlighting the significance of Shab-e-Barat.
BBN/SSR/AD-13June14-11:38 pm (BST)