How Easter is celebrated in Bangladesh

By Bristi Suzan Gomes, wife of our incredible volunteer Amit

Living as a citizen of a minority faith in Bangladesh has given me a unique perspective on religious celebrations. In a Muslim-majority country, Christian festivals like Christmas and Easter draw curiosity and respect from people of other faiths. Easter is a quieter, more personal celebration with deep spiritual meaning. Bangladesh is a land of many traditions, and each region expresses its faith through local customs.

I remember my childhood Ash Wednesdays, when our school took us to church to receive ashes on our foreheads. Those ashes remind Christians that we come from dust and will one day return to dust. Afterwards, I would explain to friends from other religions what the mark meant, feeling proud.

The 40 days of Lent were a time for restraint, kindness and self-discipline. Every Friday, I went to church to take part in the Way of the Cross, reflecting on Jesus’ pain and sacrifice. During these days, we avoided meat and lived simply. Palm Sunday brought quiet excitement. The final week, from Holy Thursday to Easter Sunday, was filled with prayers, family gatherings and local traditions.

In our village, people prepared sweet rice cakes with molasses and milk, prayed together and shared food with neighbours. On Holy Thursday, we stayed up late under the moonlight, playing and talking with friends, enjoying freedom and joy. Good Friday was solemn, as we listened to Christ’s suffering and felt the weight of sacrifice and faith. Holy Saturday carried a gentle feeling of waiting and hope. Early in the morning, homes were cleaned for Easter, and that evening, during the vigil, the priest blessed water and fire. We took a few drops home. Holding candles lit from the sacred flame, we walked through the cool night air, feeling peace and renewal.

Easter in Bangladesh comes with the warmth of summer. Simple foods like yogurt, flattened rice and puffed rice are shared among families and neighbours. Though not a national holiday, the day carries great meaning. Easter is both a celebration and a moment of reflection. It reminds us of sacrifice, resurrection and new beginnings. It also gives us a chance to meet family and friends and be thankful for each other.