Dhaka, Oct 11: Police in Bangladesh's capital imposed a ban on fireworks to avoid accidents and unruly behavior during today's Muslim holy night of Shab-e-Barat, when devotees say special prayers to seek forgiveness and good fortune. Bangladeshi Muslims celebrate the ``Night Of Fortune'' by exchanging sweetmeats, feeding the poor and holding nightlong prayer sessions and recitals of the Quran, Islam's holy book. Many decorate their homes with lights or candles. But despite warnings every year, children usually mark the night with firecrackers or sparklers, which are often of poor quality and can lead to burns or even deaths. Sometimes, fights break out between rivals over fireworks displays. The police impose a ban on fireworks every year, but it is usually ignored and dozens of casualties are reported across the country.
Bureau Report