The beats of dhak have already begun to resonate, courtyards are being decorated with alpana, and mandaps are glowing with colourful lights. Moulvibazar has now turned into a festive city. From towns to villages, from markets to neighbourhoods, the air is filled with the arrival tunes of Sharadiya Durga Utsab.
This year, Durga Puja will be celebrated at 980 mandaps across Moulvibazar district. Artisans are giving the final touches to the idols, youths are busy with decorations, and devotees are eagerly awaiting the arrival of Goddess Durga.
Ahead of the festival, a preparatory meeting was held on Wednesday afternoon at the office of the Deputy Commissioner (DC). Presiding over the meeting, DC Md Israil Hossain said, “Durga Puja will be celebrated in a festive atmosphere across the district. Anyone attempting to disrupt peace and harmony will face stern action.”
Superintendent of Police (SP) M K H Jahangir Hossain, also speaking at the meeting, urged everyone to remain alert against rumours and propaganda. “If any rumours spread centring the festival, police must be informed immediately. All have to remain vigilant to prevent misinformation,” he said.
He added that security at the puja mandaps will be ensured through joint patrols by the army, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), Ansar and police. “Additional security measures have been taken this year. Those who attempt to sabotage the celebrations will be dealt with firmly,” the SP warned.
He further noted, “Just as Durga Puja will be celebrated peacefully and festively, the upcoming national election will also be held in the same spirit with people’s participation.” He called upon devotees and visitors to maintain discipline and cooperate with law enforcement.
Among others, 46 BGB Deputy Commander Major Syed Estiaq Ahmed Morshed, Captain Abdullah Al Mahfuz, Puja Udjapan Parishad convener Advocate Sunil Kumar Das, Civil Surgeon Dr Pronoy Kanti Das, NSI Deputy Director Md Kabir Hossain, BNP district convening committee member Md Fakhrul Islam, Jamaat-e-Islami district secretary Principal Md Yamir Ali, and Press Club convener Bokshi Iqbal Ahmed addressed the meeting.
Leaders of puja mandap committees from seven upazilas, representatives of social organisations, and local dignitaries were also present.
Speakers said Durga Utsab in Moulvibazar has always been celebrated in an atmosphere of harmony and amity, and this year’s festival will also turn into a gathering of joy and togetherness.
Now, the wait is only for the arrival of the Goddess. The mandaps will sparkle with lights, the sound of dhak and dhol will reverberate across neighbourhoods, and every corner of Moulvibazar will be filled with devotion and festivity.
