On this day in the Hijri year 61, Hazrat Imam Hossain (RA), along with members of his family and close relations, embraced martyrdom at the hands of yazid's forces at Karbala to uphold the cause of Islam and the teachings of the Prophet (SM).

The day is a public holiday.

President Iajudin Ahmed, Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and Leader of the Opposition in Parliament Sheikh Hasina gave separate messages on the eve of Ashura.

Different religious organisations, including Dayemi Complex Bangladesh and Dewanbag Sharif, have drawn up programmes to observe the day by holding discussions and bringing out Tazia processions in the capital and elsewhere in the country.

Bangladesh Betar and Bangla-desh Television and private TV channels will air special progra-mmes and national dailies will publish special articles highlighting the significance of the day.