The Role of Major Religious Festivals in Fostering Communal Harmony: Perspectives from Bangladesh
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https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17834286Keywords:
Religious festivals, communal harmony, multiculturalism, religious coexistence, BangladeshAbstract
Bangladesh is a moderate, multicultural, and multi-communal society where adherents of Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity, and other faiths coexist while celebrating diverse religious festivals. These vibrant celebrations enrich the nation’s socio-cultural fabric, fostering communal harmony and mutual respect. Reflecting this diversity, the Bengali phrase 13 festivals in 12 months underscores the integral role of religious festivals in shaping Bangladesh’s collective identity. This study examines the socio-religious functions and potential of major festivals—such as Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Adha, Durga Puja, Saraswati Puja, Christmas, and Buddha Purnima—in promoting interfaith solidarity and social cohesion. Employing descriptive and analytical methodologies, the research critically evaluates existing literature, including scholarly works, digital resources, and relevant documents. The findings aim to propose pragmatic strategies for enhancing interreligious understanding and respect, thereby contributing to sustainable communal harmony in Bangladesh. By highlighting the unifying power of religious festivities, this study seeks to reinforce their role as catalysts for peaceful coexistence in a pluralistic society.
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