Army Chief Pledges Unwavering Unity and Equality at Dhakeshwari Janmashtami Rally

Bangladesh’s top military leader, Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman, delivered a powerful message of solidarity and equal rights at the central Janmashtami rally held at Dhakeshwari Temple today. In front of thousands of devotees, he underscored that communal harmony is the bedrock of the nation and vowed there would be no discrimination on grounds of religion, caste, or creed.

“Bangladesh is a land of communal harmony,” General Waker declared, noting that Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists, Christians, hill communities and Bengalis have lived side by side for centuries. “We have long enjoyed peace and amity, and we will continue to do so,” he said, thanking the Bangladesh Puja Udjapan Parishad and the Mahanagar Sarbojanin Puja Committee for the invitation.

The army chief went on to reassure citizens that the armed forces stand united with the people across the country. He highlighted the presence of the Navy and Air Force chiefs at the event, promising that all religious festivals would be celebrated without fear. “This country belongs to all of us,” he said. “Everyone’s rights are equal. That is the vision for the golden days ahead.”

General Waker also reflected on the revival of the Janmashtami procession, a grand tradition in the 19th and early 20th centuries that had fallen into abeyance. He called on devotees to carry forward the teachings of Lord Krishna as a guiding light toward peace and unity.

Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan echoed the army chief’s remarks, praising Krishna’s teachings for inspiring courage against injustice and guiding people toward righteousness. Navy Chief Admiral M. Nazmul Hassan urged strengthening the nation through mutual tolerance, invoking Lord Krishna’s spirit to ignite truth and light in society.

In a symbolic finale, the three service chiefs jointly lit ceremonial lamps to inaugurate the Janmashtami procession. The glowing flames illuminated not only the temple steps but also the promise of a united Bangladesh, where every citizen stands equal, every faith finds respect, and the nation’s rich tapestry of communities continues to thrive in harmony.