The history of Islam in Bangladesh and their Ramadhan traditions
Published: 03:03 PM,Mar 28,2023 | EDITED : 07:03 PM,Mar 28,2023
Islam has a long and rich history in Bangladesh, with its influence dating back to the 8th century. Today, Islam is the dominant religion in the country, with around 90 per cent of the population following the faith. The country’s Islamic heritage is reflected in its art, architecture, and daily life, and the holy month of Ramadhan is celebrated with great fervour and devotion.
History of Islam in Bangladesh
The spread of Islam in Bangladesh began in the 8th century when Arab traders arrived on the coast of Chittagong. The Sufi saints played an important role in the spread of Islam in the country. In the 13th century, the Sufi saint Shah Jalal arrived in Sylhet and spread the teachings of Islam throughout the region. During the Mughal era, Islam became the dominant religion in the region, and many mosques and religious institutions were built.
In the 19th century, the British East India Company established control over Bangladesh, and the Islamic community faced many challenges during this time. The British colonial rule was marked by economic exploitation and political oppression, which led to widespread poverty and social unrest. However, the Islamic community in Bangladesh continued to thrive, and many religious leaders emerged during this time.
After the partition of India in 1947, Bangladesh became a part of Pakistan, which was then an Islamic republic. However, the political and cultural differences between East and West Pakistan led to the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971. Bangladesh gained independence and became a secular republic, but Islam continued to be an important part of the country’s culture and identity.
Ramadhan Traditions in Bangladesh
Ramadhan is the holy month of fasting and prayer for Muslims all over the world, and Bangladesh is no exception. The month of Ramadhan is observed with great reverence in Bangladesh, and many special traditions are associated with this time.
The first day of Ramadhan is marked by the sighting of the moon, and the month-long fast begins at dawn. Muslims in Bangladesh wake up before dawn to eat a pre-dawn meal called sehri, which sustains them throughout the day until sunset.
During the day, Muslims abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs, and spend their time in prayer and contemplation. Many mosques hold special prayers and sermons during Ramadhan, and Muslims also recite the Quran and perform acts of charity.
The fast is broken at sunset with a meal called iftar, which often includes dates, fruits, and other traditional foods. In Bangladesh, iftar is often a communal affair, with families and friends gathering together to break their fasts and share a meal.
Another important tradition during Ramadhan is the taraweeh prayers, which are performed after the evening prayer. The entire Quran is recited during the month, with one-thirtieth of the book recited each night. The last ten days of Ramadhan are especially important, as they are believed to be the most holy.
Popular and influential Muslim personalities
These individuals have made significant contributions to their communities and have helped to promote social justice, education, and economic empowerment for Muslims in Bangladesh and beyond.
Fazlur Rahman Khan: Fazlur Rahman Khan was a structural engineer and architect who revolutionised the design of skyscrapers. He designed many iconic buildings in the United States, including the Sears Tower in Chicago, which was the world’s tallest building at the time of its completion in 1973. Despite his achievements in the field of architecture, he remained committed to his faith and was actively involved in the Muslim community, serving as a board member of the Islamic Center of Chicago.
Muhammad Yunus: Muhammad Yunus is a Nobel Peace Prize laureate and social entrepreneur who is best known for his work in the field of microfinance. He founded the Grameen Bank, which provides small loans to impoverished individuals, mostly women, in Bangladesh. His work has lifted millions of people out of poverty and has been replicated in many other countries.
Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhashani: Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhashani was a political and religious leader who fought for the rights of peasants and workers in Bangladesh. He was also an advocate for Islamic socialism and played a significant role in the country’s struggle for independence from Pakistan.
History of Islam in Bangladesh
The spread of Islam in Bangladesh began in the 8th century when Arab traders arrived on the coast of Chittagong. The Sufi saints played an important role in the spread of Islam in the country. In the 13th century, the Sufi saint Shah Jalal arrived in Sylhet and spread the teachings of Islam throughout the region. During the Mughal era, Islam became the dominant religion in the region, and many mosques and religious institutions were built.
In the 19th century, the British East India Company established control over Bangladesh, and the Islamic community faced many challenges during this time. The British colonial rule was marked by economic exploitation and political oppression, which led to widespread poverty and social unrest. However, the Islamic community in Bangladesh continued to thrive, and many religious leaders emerged during this time.
After the partition of India in 1947, Bangladesh became a part of Pakistan, which was then an Islamic republic. However, the political and cultural differences between East and West Pakistan led to the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971. Bangladesh gained independence and became a secular republic, but Islam continued to be an important part of the country’s culture and identity.
Ramadhan Traditions in Bangladesh
Ramadhan is the holy month of fasting and prayer for Muslims all over the world, and Bangladesh is no exception. The month of Ramadhan is observed with great reverence in Bangladesh, and many special traditions are associated with this time.
The first day of Ramadhan is marked by the sighting of the moon, and the month-long fast begins at dawn. Muslims in Bangladesh wake up before dawn to eat a pre-dawn meal called sehri, which sustains them throughout the day until sunset.
During the day, Muslims abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs, and spend their time in prayer and contemplation. Many mosques hold special prayers and sermons during Ramadhan, and Muslims also recite the Quran and perform acts of charity.
The fast is broken at sunset with a meal called iftar, which often includes dates, fruits, and other traditional foods. In Bangladesh, iftar is often a communal affair, with families and friends gathering together to break their fasts and share a meal.
Another important tradition during Ramadhan is the taraweeh prayers, which are performed after the evening prayer. The entire Quran is recited during the month, with one-thirtieth of the book recited each night. The last ten days of Ramadhan are especially important, as they are believed to be the most holy.
Popular and influential Muslim personalities
These individuals have made significant contributions to their communities and have helped to promote social justice, education, and economic empowerment for Muslims in Bangladesh and beyond.
Fazlur Rahman Khan: Fazlur Rahman Khan was a structural engineer and architect who revolutionised the design of skyscrapers. He designed many iconic buildings in the United States, including the Sears Tower in Chicago, which was the world’s tallest building at the time of its completion in 1973. Despite his achievements in the field of architecture, he remained committed to his faith and was actively involved in the Muslim community, serving as a board member of the Islamic Center of Chicago.
Muhammad Yunus: Muhammad Yunus is a Nobel Peace Prize laureate and social entrepreneur who is best known for his work in the field of microfinance. He founded the Grameen Bank, which provides small loans to impoverished individuals, mostly women, in Bangladesh. His work has lifted millions of people out of poverty and has been replicated in many other countries.
Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhashani: Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhashani was a political and religious leader who fought for the rights of peasants and workers in Bangladesh. He was also an advocate for Islamic socialism and played a significant role in the country’s struggle for independence from Pakistan.