Eid-ul-Adha prayers were held at the historic Sholakia Eidgah in Kishoreganj under strict security measures.
This year marked the 198th Eid-ul-Adha congregation at the ground. Despite intermittent rainfall in the preceding days that left the field somewhat muddy, a brief appearance of the sun on the eve of Eid brought relief to the arriving worshippers.
The congregation began at 9 a.m. on Saturday, June 7, led by Imam Mufti Abul Khair Muhammad Saifullah.
After a 15-year absence due to political reasons, he was reinstated this year—a moment he welcomed with great joy.
Following the prayer, special supplications were offered for national prosperity, unity, and peace among the global Muslim community.
To ensure a safe and orderly event, multiple layers of security enveloped the Sholakia ground and its surrounding areas.
Worshippers had to pass through rigorous checkpoints set up by law enforcement to enter the Eidgah.
Despite overcast skies, people began arriving at dawn—some by car, some by rickshaw or bicycle, and many on foot.
As in previous years, two special trains were operated—one from Bhairab and another from Mymensingh—to assist pilgrims traveling to Kishoreganj.
Medical teams and a fire service unit were stationed near the ground, while a large number of scouts volunteered to help manage the crowd.
A separate Eid prayer gathering was arranged for women at the Sarojubala Government Girls’ High School ground, which saw significant attendance as well.
Before the prayers commenced, a welcoming address was delivered by a senior official of the Dhaka police range.
Though attendance was slightly lower than during Eid-ul-Fitr due to the sacrificial rituals associated with Eid-ul-Adha, over one hundred thousand worshippers still gathered at Sholakia, upholding its long-standing tradition.
Security measures included the deployment of two platoons of BGB, a significant presence of police, RAB, Ansar, and intelligence personnel in plain clothes.
Surveillance was conducted through CCTV cameras, watchtowers, and metal detectors, with five archways set up at entry points. Additional security checkpoints were established throughout the town and in nearby alleyways.
The festive spirit was further highlighted by the erection of colorful arches at key locations and flags and banners lining the streets. The entire city embraced the occasion with deep religious reverence and enthusiasm.
Legend has it that in 1828, over 125,000 worshippers offered Eid prayers together at this field, giving rise to its name “Sholakia”—derived from “Sowa Lakhia,” meaning one and a quarter lakh. Like every year, the ground once again witnessed a massive turnout of devoted worshippers.
