Janmashtami, the birth celebration of Sri Krishna and one of the major festivals of the Hindu community, will be observed today across the country with due religious fervour.

According to Hindu mythology, Sri Krishna (Lord) was born on the eighth tithi of Shukla Pakkha (fortnight of the new moon) in the Bangla month of Bhadra. He takes birth in ages to safeguard the good and pious people from the hands of bad persons by establishing truth, justice and beauty in the society.

Different religious, cultural and social organisations have drawn up elaborate programmes to observe the day.

The day is a public holiday. The national dailies has published special articles while Bangladesh Betar, Bangladesh Television, private TV channels and radio stations have been airing special programmes highlighting various aspects of the eventful life of Sri Krishna.

In separate messages, President Abdul Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina have greeted the Hindus on the occasion of Janmashtami.

The president will exchange greetings with eminent citizens of the Hindu community at the Bangabhaban from 11:00am to noon today.

Mahanagar Sarbajanin Puja Committee will organise a two-day programme at the Dhakeshwari National Temple from today.

The programme includes prayer for the welfare of the nation and the country through Sri Geeta Jagya. The traditional Janmashtami procession will be brought out from the national temple at 3:00pm.