Today marks the 12th day of Rabiul Awal, a sacred date in the Islamic calendar observed globally as Eid-e-Miladunnabi. This blessed day commemorates both the birth and the passing of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Historical accounts place his birth in the renowned Quraysh tribe of Makkah in the year 570 CE. His father, Abdullah, passed away before his birth, and he lost his mother, Amina, at the tender age of six. He later passed away on the exact same date in 632 CE at the age of sixty-three.
Muslims across the globe observe this momentous occasion with deep reverence, devotion, and various religious programmes known as Siratunnabi gatherings. In Bangladesh, the day holds profound spiritual significance, with processions, symposia, and special prayers held nationwide. Mosques and religious institutions host special recitations of the Holy Quran and discussions highlighting the noble teachings, character, and universal message of peace preached by the Prophet.
True to this long-standing tradition, the port city of Chattogram witnessed a massive ocean of humanity today. Hundreds of thousands of devotees flooded the streets to participate in the annual Jashne Julus, widely recognised as the largest religious procession in the country. Organised traditionally under the auspices of Anjuman-e-Rahmania Ahmia Sunnia Trust, the procession began from the city’s Jamal Khan area and traversed through major thoroughfares, drawing participants from distant districts and remote corners of the country.
Waving green flags, chanting rhythmic salawat, and expressing profound love for the Holy Prophet, participants transformed the urban landscape of Chattogram into a vibrant display of spiritual unity and devotion. People from all walks of life—children, youth, and the elderly alike—walked shoulder to shoulder, embodying the core Islamic values of harmony, brotherhood, and compassion. Temporary stalls distributing bottled water, sherbet, and traditional snacks were set up along the route by local volunteers to support the massive gathering.
Law enforcement agencies, including the metropolitan police and traffic departments, maintained strict vigilance and heavy security along the entire route to ensure the peaceful and orderly conclusion of the grand religious assembly. Traffic diversions were put in place well in advance to manage vehicular movement, allowing the millions of attendees to move safely and without disruption.
