Bangladesh is observing Victory Day on Tuesday with nationwide programmes honouring the martyrs of the Liberation War, marking the country’s hard-won independence following the surrender of Pakistani occupation forces on 16 December 1971.
The day begins with a 31-gun salute in Dhaka as the government rolls out extensive programmes to commemorate the occasion, widely regarded as the most joyous chapter in the nation’s history after the nine-month-long war of liberation.
Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus pays homage to the Liberation War martyrs by placing a garland at the National Memorial in Savar at 6:56am. After laying the garland, he stands in solemn silence to honour the memories of those who made the ultimate sacrifice in 1971.
A contingent from the Bangladesh Army, Navy and Air Force presents a state salute at the memorial. The Chief Justice, advisers of the interim government, chiefs of the three services, freedom fighters, diplomats, and senior civil and military officials attended the ceremony.
Throughout the day, programmes include wreath-laying at memorials, hoisting of the national flag, cultural events, recitations, essay writing and painting competitions for children, and acrobatic displays. As part of the celebrations, 54 paratroopers are scheduled to perform a flag-bearing skydive to mark 54 years of independence, an event expected to set a Guinness World Record, according to a PID handout.
The Bangladesh Army, Navy and Air Force are also conducting separate fly-past exercises at the Old Airport in Tejgaon from 11:00am. Alongside government initiatives, socio-political, educational and cultural organisations across the country are organising their own programmes to mark the day.
Victory Day celebrations are extending beyond the country’s borders, with Bangladesh missions abroad arranging events to highlight the significance of the day. At home, families of martyrs, wounded freedom fighters and other distinguished freedom fighters are paying their respects, joined by foreign diplomats, political groups, social organisations and members of the public.
Authorities have hoisted the national flag at all government, semi-government, autonomous and private buildings, while major streets and intersections in Dhaka and other cities are displaying national colours. Newspapers have published special supplements focusing on the importance of Victory Day.
Several institutions, including Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, Bangla Academy, National Museum, Liberation War Museum and Bangladesh Sishu Academy, are organising discussions, cultural programmes, sports events and screenings of Liberation War-based documentaries. Victory fairs showcasing local and indigenous crafts are taking place in all districts and upazilas.
The Bangladesh Postal Service is issuing a commemorative postage stamp, while religious institutions are holding special prayers seeking peace and progress for the nation.
Authorities are serving special meals at orphanages, hospitals, jails, old age homes and government-run children’s facilities. Children’s parks and museums are open to the public free of charge, and cinemas are screening Liberation War-based films at no cost.
On the eve of Victory Day, President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus issued separate messages underscoring the day’s significance.
President Shahabuddin recalled that Bangladesh achieved its long-cherished freedom and sovereignty on 16 December 1971 through immense sacrifice. He paid deep respect to the martyrs, wounded freedom fighters, women who suffered atrocities during the war, and families who endured loss for the cause of independence.
He noted that the Liberation War aimed not only at political freedom but also economic emancipation and social justice. Referring to the student-led mass uprising of 2024, the President said it renewed hope for building a just Bangladesh free from discrimination and corruption.
Professor Yunus said the nation secured its independent identity and red-and-green flag through the blood and sacrifice of countless martyrs. He honoured those who gave their lives during the Liberation War and the long struggle for independence.
Referring to the July Uprising, the Chief Adviser said the country has gained another opportunity to establish a democratic system free from discrimination, corruption and tyranny. He said reform initiatives undertaken by the interim government are progressing with the participation of citizens.
He urged people to work together to build a safe, happy and beautiful Bangladesh for future generations and extended warm greetings to Bangladeshis at home and abroad on Victory Day.
