Dhaka University (DU) will host its first-ever Eid Rally, marking a significant cultural celebration on campus.
The event, set to take place on Eid-ul-Fitr morning, promises to unite the university community in an unprecedented display of solidarity and festive spirit.
However, the event has sparked controversy, with critics questioning its alignment with Islamic traditions.
Allegations of animal abuse and a cyber attack on a female student opposing ‘state-patronized animal abuse’ have added to the tension. Some view the rally as an 'Bid'ah' (innovation), while others have dubbed it 'Riverine Islam,' suggesting that it deviates from authentic religious practices.
The event’s secular nature and inclusivity for all religions have further intensified the debate surrounding its legitimacy.
Spearheaded by Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Niaz Ahmad Khan, the rally will commence at 8:00 AM following the first Eid congregation at Masjidul Jami'a, the university's central mosque.
The procession will wind its way through key campus landmarks, including TSC (Teacher-Student Centre), before culminating at poignant Smriti Chirantan Square.
Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan, adviser of the interim government, posted on Facebook sharing this update: “Thank you to the Dhaka University administration for this initiative. Let our Eid be filled with festivity. May no one's Eid be boring.”
Mohammad Rafiqul Islam, Acting Director of the university's Public Relations Office, emphasised the historical significance of this event. "This is a groundbreaking moment for Dhaka University," he stated, highlighting that no such Eid Rally has ever been organised on campus previously. The rally will bring together faculty members, students, and staff in a unified celebration of the holy occasion.
Sohel Rana Sabbir, Joint Convenor of Bangladesh Ganotantrik Chhatra Sangsad, expressed excitement about the Dhaka University administration's announcement of an Eid rally, following the government's declaration. He praised the move, stating, "How beautiful is this! May Eid be joyful for everyone in a Bangladesh free from autocracy."
Similarly, Muinuddin Gaus, a student from Islamic Studies, reflected on DU’s previous indifference towards Ramadan and Eid, comparing it to non-Muslim-governed Oxford and Cambridge. However, he commended the positive change this year, saying, “The new administration has met students' expectations in a Muslim-majority country.”
Joyen Uddin Sarker Tonmoy, an Economics student, noted that last year, Inqilab Mancha spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi organized the first Eid procession for this generation. This year, Eid processions will be celebrated nationally, with DU and villages also preparing. Tonmoy hopes for the continuation of their cultural struggle.
Meanwhile, Raheel A Rahman, a lawyer in Chattogram, criticized the proposed Eid rally in Dhaka on Facebook, emphasizing that Eid is a sacred Muslim event. He questioned its inclusivity for all religions and referred to such practices as 'Riverine Islam.'
Additionally, Muhammad Abdur Rauf, Central Training Secretary of the Bangladesh Ahlehadeeth Youth Association, criticized the rally as a ‘Bid'ah’ (innovation), urging Muslims to adhere to Islamic traditions.
However, a female student of the Department of Mass Communication and Journalism, stated, "I have no complaints about organizing the Eid event. But I condemn the promotion of animal abuse in an event sponsored by the government. If possible, please talk about this and stop it. It would be harmful if this becomes established as a trend." Following this post, Ariful Islam Abir, a student from the Department of Political Science, launched a cyberattack on her and engaged in severe body shaming.
The university's decision to inaugurate this rally reflects a broader commitment to fostering community spirit and cultural inclusivity. By creating a shared moment of celebration, DU demonstrates its role not just as an academic institution, but as a vibrant social hub that honours important cultural milestones.
Participants can expect a meaningful procession that symbolises unity, tradition, and the collective joy of Eid-ul-Fitr. As the first of its kind, this rally is poised to become a potentially cherished new tradition for Dhaka University community.
NRE/SH
