DHAKA: The country’s Muslim community observed the holy Shab-e-Barat, known as the night of fortune, as elsewhere of the world on Friday night with due religious fervour and devotion.

Devout Muslims have spent the night at mosques and homes offering prayers, reciting from the holy Quran and seeking blessings from Allah for long life, peace, progress and happiness for themselves, their families, relatives and friends as well as the nation and the ummah.

According to the Islamic beliefs, Shab-e-Barat was one of three most sacred nights.

Many Muslims are fasting on Saturday, the following day of Shab-e-Barat. Traditional foods like handmade rice-bread with beef and halwa were prepared on Friday afternoon in the rural and urban areas across the country on the night.

President Abdul Hamid, and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina greeted the Muslims on the occasion of the holy night.

In separate messages on the eve of the holy occasion, they prayed for peace, progress and prosperity of all.

In his message, President Abdul Hamid said the holy night is imminent with the message of fortune for the mankind.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, in her message, called upon all to be devoted to human welfare and nation-building, being inspired with the teachings of Shab-e-Barat.

BDST: 0845 HRS, JUN 14, 2014