Today, March 26th, Bangladesh observes its Great Independence and National Day. The date marks the anniversary of the horrific night of March 25, 1971, when the Pakistani military, equipped with advanced weaponry, launched a brutal crackdown on unarmed and sleeping Bengalis.
This barbaric act of genocide and destruction solidified the meaning of freedom for the people of Bangladesh, igniting their fight for independence. Extensive national programs have been undertaken to celebrate the day with due solemnity and honor.
National Flag Hoisted, Memorial Prepared for Martyrs
To mark the significance of Independence Day, the national flag has been hoisted at sunrise on all government, semi-government, autonomous, and private buildings, as well as on prominent buildings across Dhaka city.
Key buildings and establishments will also be illuminated. Meanwhile, the National Martyrs' Memorial in Savar has been meticulously prepared to receive tributes to the nation's greatest sons.
The memorial premises have been cleaned and given a fresh look. Stringent security measures have been implemented across the area, including watchtowers and CCTV surveillance, to prevent any untoward incidents.
Wreaths Laid, Nationwide Celebrations Underway
The day commenced with a 31-gun salute in Dhaka and across the country at dawn. Following sunrise, Chief Advisor Dr. Muhammad Yunus placed a floral wreath at the National Martyrs' Memorial.
Subsequently, Bir Sreshtho (highest gallantry award) families, wounded freedom fighters, and other freedom fighters, led by the Advisor on Liberation War Affairs, paid their respects.
Foreign diplomats, various political and social organizations, and citizens from all walks of life will also lay wreaths at the memorial to honor the martyred freedom fighters.
Similar tributes are being paid at memorials in districts and sub-districts nationwide. National flags are being raised, the national anthem sung, and rallies and parades by students are being held at all levels across the country.
Nationwide Programs Highlight Liberation War Spirit
Major roads and intersections in Dhaka and other cities across the country have been adorned with the national flag and other festive banners. Today is a public holiday.
The Chief Advisor has issued a message on this auspicious occasion. Newspapers have published special supplements, articles, and literary magazines highlighting the significance of the day.
Electronic media outlets are broadcasting a month-long series of programs based on the Liberation War.
Various socio-cultural organizations, including the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, Bangla Academy, National Museum, Liberation War Museum, and Bangladesh Shishu Academy, have organized discussions, cultural events, drawing and essay competitions for children, and screenings of documentaries and films on the Liberation War.
Sports events such as football, T-20 cricket, kabaddi, and ha-du-du are also being organized at the district and sub-district levels.
Additionally, receptions will be held for war veterans and families of martyrs in metropolitan areas, districts, and sub-districts. Special prayers and worship services will be held in religious institutions, praying for the peace, prosperity, and progress of the nation.
Special meals will be provided in all hospitals, prisons, orphanages, old age homes, vagrant centers, and children's day care centers across the country.
All children's parks and museums will remain open to the public free of charge. Bangladesh Navy and Coast Guard ships will be open for public visits at Chattogram, Khulna, Mongla, and Payra ports, as well as at Sadarghat, Pagla (Narayanganj), Barishal, and Chandpur BIWTA ghats in Dhaka, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
Similar programs highlighting the significance of the day will also be observed at the district and sub-district levels and in Bangladesh embassies abroad.
