Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman today spoke at the inauguration of the central Janmashtami rally at Dhakeshwari Temple located at Palashi intersection in the capital. Photo: BSS

DHAKA, August 16, 2025 (BSS) - Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman today said Bangladesh is a country of communal harmony where rights to all are equal. 

"This is the Bangladesh of harmony where Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists, Christians, hill people, and Bengalis have lived together peacefully for centuries. On this auspicious day, our pledge should be to maintain this harmony and brotherhood forever. This country belongs to everyone. There will be no division here -- not by religion, caste, or creed. We are all citizens of this land, and each of us has equal rights over it. Together, we look forward to a golden future," he said.

The Army Chief made the remarks while addressing devotees at the inauguration of the central Janmashtami rally at Dhakeshwari Temple located at Palashi intersection in the capital as the chief guest.

Bangladesh Puja Udjapan Parishad, Mahanagar Sarbojanin Puja Committee and Dhakeshwari Temple arranged it.

Extending greetings on the occasion, General Waker thanked the Bangladesh Puja Udjapan Parishad and the Mahanagar Sarbojanin Puja Committee for inviting him to join the celebration.

"This joyful celebration has begun with songs and dance, and I am grateful that you have included us in this festivity. Thousands of devotees have gathered here today, and we are thankful to be part of your joy," he said.

General Waker said that the armed forces, including the navy and air force, remain committed to ensuring this spirit of unity.

"Across Bangladesh, the armed forces are deployed to support you. You will celebrate your religious festivals with joy, and we will share in that joy with you," he added.

Calling on devotees to carry forward the teachings of Lord Krishna, the army chief said, "Let his teachings radiate from here to everywhere."
 
"It will inspire us to live together in peace and unity," he added.

He also noted that the Janmashtami procession was once a major annual tradition in the 19th and 20th centuries but had been discontinued before its recent revival.

"I hope and In Sha Allah, believe that this festival and this rally will continue every year from now on. Whatever support and assistance you seek from us, we will extend," he said.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral M Nazmul Hassan has called for maintaining mutual tolerance and unity to strengthen the nation being inspired by the teachings of Lord Krishna.

Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan echoed similar sentiments, stating that the teachings of Lord Krishna not only inspire courage against falsehood and injustice but also guide people towards the path of righteousness.

Following their speeches, a vibrant and colorful procession began its journey, passing through key city landmarks including Polashi intersection, Jagannath Hall, Central Shaheed Minar, Doel Chattar, High Court area, Bangabazar, Nagar Bhaban, Golap Shah Mazar, Gulistan Intersection, Nawabpur Road and Roy Saheb Bazar Intersection and later, concluded at Bahadur Shah Park.