Bangladesh’s Independence is being celebrated with a grand parade at the National Parade Square in Tejgaon on Thursday at 10am.
The traditional Independence Day parade has returned after nearly two decades, drawing attention from dignitaries and the public alike.
President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman are attending the parade, receiving the ceremonial salute upon arrival.
The event also includes the three service chiefs, cabinet members, senior government officials, and ambassadors from various countries.
Organised under the guidance of the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs and managed by the Armed Forces Division, the parade is being executed by the Ninth Infantry Division.
Preparations began at the Parade Square at the start of Ramadan, with a final rehearsal held on Tuesday.
The parade is showcasing the nation’s defence capabilities both on land and in the air. Soldiers, sailors, and airmen, along with members of law enforcement agencies, are taking part in the display. It started with the mounted entry of the parade commander, Major General SM Asadul Haque, GOC of the Ninth Infantry Division, who is accompanying the President in an open jeep inspection of the troops.
Various contingents are participating, including Infantry, Artillery, Signals, East Bengal, Air Defence, Para Commando, Navy, and modernised infantry units. Paratroopers are performing aerial descents carrying the national flag, while the Air Force is presenting a series of strategic demonstrations. The parade is expected to conclude with a salute from a MiG-29 fighter jet to the President.
The return of the Independence Day parade on 26 March comes 18 years after it was last formally held. It had been suspended following the ousting of the Awami League government.
During the interim government, such displays were not held on Independence Day, although Victory Day celebrations on 16 December continued.
This historic parade serves as a vibrant reminder of Bangladesh’s struggle for independence and its modern defence strength, attracting admiration from both local and international guests.
