Bangladesh Public Holidays

Summary:

This article provides an overview of public holidays in Bangladesh, highlighting key national commemorations, religious and cultural celebrations, and noting potential operational changes during these festive periods.

Overview

Bangladesh observes several significant holidays throughout the year, commemorating historical events, religious observances, and cultural traditions.

Key National Holidays:

Shaheed Dibash (Martyrs' Day): Celebrated on February 21st, this day commemorates the language martyrs who sacrificed their lives in 1952 to recognize Bengali as the state language.

Independence Day: Observed on March 26th, this day marks the declaration of independence from Pakistan in 1971.

National Mourning Day: Commemorated on August 15th, this day honors the assassination of the nation's founding father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and his family in 1975.

Victory Day: Celebrated on December 16th, this day marks the surrender of Pakistani forces in 1971, leading to Bangladesh's ultimate victory in the Liberation War.

Religious and Cultural Holidays:

Pohela Boishakh: The Bengali New Year, usually falling on April 14th or 15th, is celebrated with traditional attire, feasts, and cultural programs.

Eid-ul-Fitr: Marking the end of Ramadan, this Islamic festival is celebrated with prayers, gift-giving, and family gatherings.

Eid-ul-Adha: Commemorating the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son, as commanded by God, this festival involves the ritual sacrifice of an animal.

Work Week and Public Holidays:

Bangladesh follows a five-day workweek, with government offices and banks typically closed on Fridays and Saturdays.

Note on Dates:

Lunar-Based Holidays: The exact dates for Pohela Boishakh, Eid-ul-Fitr, and Eid-ul-Adha vary each year as they are based on the Islamic lunar calendar.

Special Holidays

Independence Day: March 26, celebrates Bangladesh's independence from Pakistan.

Birth Anniversary of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman:

March 17, commemorates the birthday of the father of the nation.

Victory Day: December 16, commemorates the victory of the Bangladesh Liberation War.

Predictions for 2025

Martyrs' Day (Shaheed Dibash): February 21, 2025 (Friday)

Independence Day: March 26, 2025 (Wednesday)

National Mourning Day: August 15, 2025 (Friday)

Victory Day: December 16, 2025 (Tuesday)

For festivals based on the lunar or religious calendar, we will need to wait closer to the date to determine the exact dates. For example:

Bengali New Year (Pohela Boishakh): Expected to be celebrated on April 14 or 15, 2025.

Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Azha: The specific dates will be determined according to the Islamic calendar.

Holidays condition

Operational Changes: Due to local protests, curfews, or other unforeseen circumstances, the operations of transportation companies, including airlines, shipping lines, and railways, may be disrupted during holidays.

Local Customs: Respecting local customs and traditions is essential when visiting Bangladesh during festive periods.