Ukhiya, Oct 02 (V7N) – Durga Puja is being celebrated with religious fervor and enthusiasm by displaced Hindu Rohingyas at the Kutupalong camp in Ukhiya, Cox’s Bazar. Since fleeing Myanmar and taking refuge in Bangladesh, the Hindu Rohingya community has been observing the festival annually at the camp since 2018.
 
This year’s Puja began on Sunday with the traditional Shasthi rituals at the only temple in the camp, Sri Sri Shakti Radhakrishna Mandir, located in Kutupalong Camp-1 East. The five-day celebration has brought a festive spirit to the Hindu families living in the refugee settlement.
 
According to government data, around 80 Hindu Rohingya families crossed into Bangladesh during the Myanmar military crackdown in 2017. Currently, the number of such families in Ukhiya’s Kutupalong camp has grown to 127, with approximately 800 Hindu Rohingya residents.
 
Festival committee president Madhuram Pal said, “Despite many hardships, we celebrate Durga Puja every year. These days of worship bring a sense of joy and inspiration to our lives.”
 
Refugee Debi Bala shared, “Our lives are filled with uncertainty, but during Durga Puja, we find moments of happiness. We try to preserve our traditions from Myanmar.”
 
To ensure a peaceful celebration, the local administration and security forces have tightened measures. Camp in-charge and Assistant Secretary Mohammad Munibur Rahman confirmed that all necessary support is being provided to allow displaced Hindus to celebrate freely. Ukhiya Police Station Officer-in-Charge Mohammad Ziaul Haque added that security has been strengthened in and around the camp, with a commitment to ensuring the safety of all communities.
 
The local Puja Udjapon Committee has also extended assistance, with committee treasurer Sajal Aich noting, “Even with limited resources, we stand by them every year. This year we provided Puja items and offerings.”
 
Young Rohingyas in the camp were seen participating in preparations—decorating idols, collecting flowers, and cleaning the temple—despite not having new clothes for the festival. Their excitement reflects a search for joy in the midst of hardship.
 
Other religious groups in the camp have also shown empathy and support, and the festival is proceeding peacefully without any disruptions.
 
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