A colorful event marking Buddha Purnima, one of the major religious festivals of the Buddhist community, was held in Merul Badda, Dhaka, organized by the Bangladesh Buddhist Federation. Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir attended as chief guest and delivered a message of unity, harmony, and peace. The program began with a reception honoring Independence Award-winning educationist Professor Dr. Sukomal Barua, whose contributions were remembered with respect and gratitude.

In his address, the minister emphasized that all religions promote human welfare, peace, and compassion. He urged people to avoid violence, hatred, and conflict, and to uphold human values. He also called for national unity beyond divisions to build a prosperous and self-reliant Bangladesh. State Minister for Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Dipen Dewan, speaking as special guest, highlighted the importance of collective efforts by people of all faiths for the country’s progress.

Speakers expressed hope that such events would help spread messages of peace, harmony, and human welfare throughout society.