Bangladesh
Bangladesh observed its Independence Day and National Day on Tuesday with solemn ceremonies and fervent enthusiasm, commemorating the nation’s hard-won freedom.
The historic day, March 26, marks the declaration of independence by Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1971, following the brutal crackdown on unarmed Bangalees by Pakistani occupation forces on the midnight of March 25.
After a nine-month War of Liberation, marked by the supreme sacrifices of three million people and the harrowing sufferings of countless others, including rape and torture, Bangladesh finally achieved its long-awaited independence on December 16, 1971. March 26 is observed as a public holiday in the country.
In the morning, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina paid homage to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman at the National Mausoleum in Savar, along with President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. Wreaths were laid at the martyrs’ monument, honoring the sacrifices made during the Liberation War.
Returning from Savar, Prime Minister Hasina placed another wreath at Bangabandhu Memorial Museum in Dhaka’s Dhanmondi area, standing in silent reverence to honor the memory of the nation’s founding father.
Accompanied by central leaders of the Awami League, Prime Minister Hasina laid a wreath at Bangabandhu’s portrait on behalf of the party. Later, she unveiled a commemorative postage stamp and other memorabilia at a ceremony held at Ganabhaban, her official residence.
Throughout the country, national flags were hoisted atop government and private buildings, while illuminated displays adorned government and semi-government buildings and public spaces.
Socio-cultural and political organizations arranged various programs to celebrate the day, with special supplements published in national dailies and special programs aired on radio and television channels.
Special prayers were offered at mosques, temples, churches, and other places of worship for the peace of the departed souls of Bangabandhu, the four national leaders, and all martyrs of the Liberation War.
To mark the occasion, special food distributions were organized at hospitals, jails, childcare centers, and old age homes. Additionally, children’s parks and museums remained open to the public throughout the day.
In a gesture of openness and engagement, vessels of the Bangladesh Navy and Coast Guard were open for public visitation at various ports across the country.
Similar celebrations were held at district, upazila, and international levels, emphasizing the significance of Bangladesh’s Independence Day and highlighting the nation’s journey towards freedom and prosperity.
