President Mohammed Shahabuddin exchanged greetings with the Buddhist community on the occasion of Buddha Purnima at Bangabhaban. Photo : PID

DHAKA, May 1, 2026 (BSS) – President Mohammed Shahabuddin, while exchanging greetings with the Buddhist community on the occasion of Buddha Purnima, has called for their significant contribution to establishing peace and harmony in the world.

He said Buddha Purnima is the main religious festival of the Buddhist community and has been celebrated in Bangladesh with due dignity and festive mood since long.

Stating that the country's soil and people are intertwined with the Buddhist tradition of thousands of years, he remembered the contribution of Mahapandit Atish Dipankar with due respect.

The Head of State said Buddhism has played an important role in shaping knowledge, science, culture and human values.

The great Buddha is a symbol of humanity, equality and friendship and his message of 'non-violence' is equally relevant in establishing peace in society even today, he said. 

Stressing the importance of maintaining patience, restraint and national unity in the current context of war, conflict and hatred in the world, he said all achievements, irrespective of religion or caste, are the collective pride of the nation.

The President expressed hope that the Buddhist community, following the teachings and ideals of Lord Buddha, will play a leading role in building a peaceful, prosperous and humane Bangladesh.

He called upon everyone to work together to build an inclusive state by maintaining mutual amity and harmony,  wishing that the joy of Buddha Purnima would bring happiness, peace and success in everyone's life.

The President’s wife Dr Rebeka Sultana, Minister for Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Dipen Dewan, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Hindu, Buddhist, Christian and Ethnic Affairs Bijan Kanti Sarkar, ambassadors of various countries, senior leaders of the Buddhist community, as well as officials of the Ministry of Religion and the President's Office were present at the views-exchange-meeting at the Credential Hall of Bangabhaban.