The Christian community of the country celebrated Christmas Day today as elsewhere across the world, commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ.

Christmas, the biggest religious festival of the Christian community, is the celebration of rebirth, new beginning, forgiveness and peace, and renewing relationship with God and human beings.

Decoration of Christmas trees with colourful lights, special prayers, distribution of gifts among children and exchange of pleasantries were the main features of the day's festivities.

Christmas carols and hymns were sung before and after the prayer sessions at the churches.

President Abdul Hamid exchanged greetings with members of the Christian community at Bangabhaban on the occasion of Christmas Day. President's wife Rashida Khanom was present.

Archbishop of Bangladesh Patrick D Rozario, ambassadors and representatives from different foreign missions, distinguished persons of the Christian community, religious leaders and professionals joined the reception.

A group of singers performed the Christmas carol at the reception. Later, President Abdul Hamid cut a Christmas cake with members of the Christian community.

Bangladesh Television and Bangladesh Betar along with private TV channels and radio stations aired special programmes highlighting the significance of the day.