Dhaka, Bangladesh – The Bangladesh government has cancelled the public holiday granted for Shri Krishna Janmashtami, leaving the Hindu community deeply hurt. Shri Krishna Janmashtami is celebrated across numerous temples, including the Dhakeshwari Temple, Chattogram, and Sylhet.
Bangladesh Janmashtami Holiday Cancelled : बांग्लादेश में श्रीकृष्ण जन्माष्टमी की सरकारी छुट्टी निरस्त होने से हिन्दू आहत ! https://t.co/CFxdyWIOba
— Deepak Nadgire (@DeepakNadg14423) September 3, 2026
According to a report by the ‘Dhaka Tribune’, the public holidays granted for Saraswati Puja, Shri Krishna Janmashtami, Durgashtami, and Buddha Purnima in Bangladesh were cancelled earlier this year on 2 January itself. Hindus have strongly opposed this move.
A report by the local newspaper ‘Prothom Alo’ states that while Janmashtami celebrations will take place inside temples this time, the festive atmosphere usually witnessed in the markets ten days in advance is noticeably absent. There was a time in Bangladesh when Hindu festivals were celebrated with immense enthusiasm in temples, marked by grand festivities and processions; however, the vibrant spirit seen during former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s tenure is no longer visible in the country.
Nihar Haldar, spokesperson for the Bangladesh Hindu Jagran Manch, said that an atmosphere of fear still prevails in the community. While a few temples will take out Janmashtami processions, the vibrant enthusiasm of the past will be missing in most places.
Special security arrangements at Temples! – Home Minister of Bangladesh
Bangladesh Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed stated that special security forces will be deployed by the police and local administration to protect temples.
