A special cultural programme was held in Dhaka to commemorate the bravery of naval commandos during Operation Jackpot, a daring operation carried out during Bangladesh’s Liberation War in 1971.
The event also paid tribute to Soviet soldier Yuri Redkin, who lost his life while helping clear sunken ships and mines at Chattogram Port on 13 July 1973.
The programme was held on Sunday afternoon at the Russian Cultural Centre in Dhanmondi, organised by Smriti Ekattor and Russian House, with support from 1971 Our Pride.
Naval commandos and freedom fighters who took part in Operation Jackpot shared their memories of the operation, recounting lesser-known stories from the daring mission.
Speakers at the event said the song Amar Putul Ajke Jabe Shoshurbari was broadcast on Akashvani as a secret signal for Operation Jackpot.
After receiving the signal on the night of 15 August, the naval commandos launched their attacks.
Operation Jackpot was carried out simultaneously in Chattogram, Mongla, Chandpur and Narayanganj on 15 and 16 August 1971.
During the operations, naval commandos damaged and sank several vessels, including ships belonging to the Pakistani forces and other countries.
The attacks severely disrupted operations at some of the country’s key seaports and river ports.
The cultural programme aimed to introduce the history of the naval operations during the Liberation War to a new generation, while providing an opportunity to hear first-hand accounts from surviving naval fighters and remember those who had passed away.
Freedom fighter Mahbub Zaman, the chief organiser of the event, said one of its main objectives was to bring the unique history of the Liberation War’s naval operations to younger generations.
The national anthems of Bangladesh and Russia were performed at the event.
A documentary on the Liberation War was also screened, while participants shared memories and several individuals were honoured.
Soviet soldier Yuri Redkin was remembered in particular for his contribution to clearing mines and removing sunken vessels from Chattogram Port.
He died during the operation in 1973.
Two songs used as signals during Operation Jackpot were also performed by Mokbul Hossain and Monira Rawnok Bubli.
Through music and personal recollections, the programme brought the stories of courage from the Liberation War to life.
The contributions of Soviet soldiers to Bangladesh’s Liberation War and its aftermath were also remembered, with Alexandre, a representative nominated by the Russian Embassy, expressing gratitude for their sacrifices.
