Prime Minister's Adviser and Prime Minister's Office (PMO) spokesperson Mahdi Amin stated on Saturday that the government aims to forge a nation where citizens are unified simply as Bangladeshis, rather than being fragmented into minorities and majorities.

Addressing the gathering while inaugurating the Mahalaya festival hosted by the Gulshan-Banani Sarbojanin Puja Foundation at Banani Ground in the capital at dawn, Amin affirmed, "Every citizen would enjoy equal rights, equal security, equal freedom and equal dignity from the state, society and government. Ensuring these rights, security and respect for every individual as a citizen is a specific plan of the government."

The adviser urged citizens across all religious and ethnic backgrounds to join hands in upholding truth and justice, striving to build a modern, harmonious country capable of overcoming all hurdles and tribulations.

"The government wants to build a Bangladesh where no one would face discrimination or division because of their religious identity. Everyone would be able to live freely with their heads held high and participate in the country's overall development and progress with equal dignity," he emphasized.

Highlighting recent welfare measures, the PMO spokesperson noted that under the direct directive of the Prime Minister, financial allocations for every Durga Puja mandap nationwide have been enhanced after a prolonged gap.

Furthermore, he mentioned that the duration of official public holidays for Durga Puja has been extended, fulfilling a long-felt demand of the community.

Elaborating on the spiritual essence of the event, Amin remarked that Mahalaya embodies a fresh beam of hope and the triumph of righteousness over evil, as its primary message is to step away from darkness and secure the victory of light.

He added that Durga Puja reflects a profound bond rooted in the country's enduring traditions, cultural heritage, and interfaith harmony.

Describing the citizenry as the nation's core strength, Amin observed that the collective dreams, public expectations, and steadfast resolve to remain united serve as the true engines driving Bangladesh's forward momentum.

He asserted that the government considers popular interest, national sovereignty, and the holistic welfare of the public as its paramount objectives, adding, "That is why we say, 'Bangladesh First'."

He underscored that advancing the nation with its sovereign interests at the forefront necessitates everyone working shoulder to shoulder.

The event was attended by Prime Minister's Special Assistant Bijon Kanti Sarkar, Indian Deputy High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pawan Kumar Badhe, Vice-Chairman of the Hindu Religious Welfare Trust Tapan Kanti Majumder, President of the Gulshan-Banani Sarbojanin Puja Foundation Alok Saha, and General Secretary Binoy Gopal Roy, among other dignitaries.

Upon reaching the venue at 6 am, the spokesperson was warmly received by foundation leaders with floral greetings and presented with a ceremonial uttariya (traditional shawl).

A special cultural presentation ensued, formally launching the countdown to Sharadiya Durga Puja through the observance of Maha Mahalaya.