Rajshahi district correspondent : The biggest religious festival of the Hindu community in Bangladesh, Sharadiya Durga Puja, is being celebrated across the country with vibrant festivities. Like elsewhere, Rajshahi city has also been immersed in a joyous atmosphere centering on this grand occasion.

From early morning on Maha Ashtami (Tuesday, September 30), thousands of devotees and visitors began thronging various puja mandaps across the city. Men, women, children, and the elderly gathered to offer Anjali, participate in Kumari Puja, enjoy cultural programs, and observe other religious rituals. Colorful lighting, theme-based decorations, and artistic installations have transformed each mandap into a center of festivity and unity.

To ensure security and order, Rajshahi Metropolitan Police (RMP) Commissioner Mohammad Abu Sufian conducted an on-site inspection of several puja mandaps at around 11:30 AM. He visited the historic Ranibazar Tiger Puja Mandap and Dharmasava Puja Mandap, engaging in discussions with puja committee leaders and volunteers.

Speaking to journalists, Commissioner Sufian said,

"Religious festivals are not exclusive to any one community—they belong to all. People of all faiths—Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists, Christians—are living together in harmony. This heritage of communal harmony is our strength, and with everyone`s cooperation, our goal is to ensure the celebrations remain joyous and peaceful."

He further added that the RMP has taken all necessary preparations to ensure the festival proceeds without disruption. Regular patrols have been intensified throughout the city, and various branches—including Detective Branch (DB), Cyber Unit, Traffic Division, and Bomb Disposal Unit—are actively engaged. Police personnel, Ansar members, and trained volunteers have been deployed at every puja mandap to maintain order and assist visitors.

Regarding the upcoming immersion (Bisorjon) ceremonies, Commissioner Sufian informed that three designated ghats—Aibadh, Munnujan, and Police Line Ghat—have been prepared with ample space to accommodate large gatherings. A special traffic management plan has also been implemented to prevent congestion and ensure smooth movement on immersion day.

He also mentioned that CCTV surveillance has been installed at all key locations and mandaps to maintain close monitoring. A special police hotline has been introduced, offering instant assistance for any emergency. Regular briefing parades and coordination meetings are being held to review and adapt the overall law and order situation during the festival period.

At the Tiger Puja Mandap, this year’s theme was "Symbol of Peace." Artistic representations and idol designs highlighted messages of peace and communal harmony. During his visit, the Commissioner emphasized:

"We are maintaining strict vigilance to uphold law and order. Our collective responsibility is to ensure that the festivities conclude in a cheerful and safe manner. Religious harmony is a national tradition, and everyone must play their part in protecting it. People should remain alert so that no rumors or misinformation disrupt our social unity."

Partha Pal Chowdhury, General Secretary of the Tiger Puja Mandap Committee, expressed his satisfaction with the administration`s support, saying:

"Every year, we receive full cooperation from the police during Durga Puja. This year has been no different. Their presence strengthens our sense of security, and the devotees are participating in the celebrations without fear or hesitation—that’s the biggest relief for us."

He added that continuous monitoring by law enforcement across the city has enhanced public confidence, making the celebrations more joyful and peaceful.