Nation to mark Independence Day today with fervour

The country is marking its 56th Independence and National Day today with a series of nationwide programmes, including a 31-gun salute, ceremonial wreath-laying at the National Memorial, and a public holiday.

The armed struggle for independence formally began in the early hours of 26 March 1971, following the brutal crackdown on unarmed civilians on the night of 25 March. After a nine-month Liberation War, and the sacrifice of three million lives, Bangladesh achieved independence on 16 December 1971.

President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman issued separate messages on the eve of the day, paying tribute to the martyrs and urging unity in building the nation.

In his message, the President said the core objectives of independence were to secure political and economic freedom, establish a society free from exploitation, uphold human dignity, and empower citizens at all levels.

“We must strive to realise the unfinished aspirations of our independence by ensuring equality, good governance, transparency, and accountability across all spheres of the state and society. It is our sacred duty to build a safe, prosperous, and compassionate Bangladesh for future generations,” he said.

He extended greetings to Bangladeshis at home and abroad, adding: “Independence is the greatest achievement of our nation. On this solemn day, I remember with profound respect the valiant martyrs who laid down their lives in the great War of Liberation, whose supreme sacrifice secured our independence.”

The President also paid tribute to Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, Bir Uttam, along with all freedom fighters, war-affected women, national leaders, and citizens who contributed to the struggle.

He noted that the sacrifices of the Liberation War continue to inspire efforts to build a modern Bangladesh based on equality, justice, democracy, and human dignity.

Highlighting current challenges, he said the country continues to face the impacts of prolonged misgovernance, global economic pressures, and energy crises.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing these issues while working towards a self-reliant and just nation.

“At this moment, strong national unity, mutual empathy and patriotism are of paramount importance,” he said, urging citizens to work together regardless of political differences.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, in his message, emphasised that the fundamental goal of independence was to build a discrimination-free, democratic, peaceful and prosperous Bangladesh.

“Keeping that goal before us, we must work together and continue to move the country forward. To further accelerate the progress and development of our beloved motherland, we must uphold in our hearts the spirit of national unity, mutual tolerance and patriotism,” he said.
He added, “26 March is a glorious and historic day in our national life. On this day, I remember with profound respect the nation’s finest sons, whose sacrifices enabled us to achieve an independent and sovereign Bangladesh.”

The Prime Minister also recalled the contributions of freedom fighters, and the suffering of women and others during the war, and prayed for eternal peace for the martyrs.

“Let us draw inspiration from the significance of the great Independence and National Day and dedicate ourselves, from our respective positions, to the welfare of the country. Together, let us work to build a developed, prosperous and dignified Bangladesh,” he said.

Ceremonies & Nationwide programmes

The government has organised extensive programmes across the country to mark the occasion.

The day began with gun salutes at dawn in Dhaka and across all districts and upazilas. The national flag has been hoisted on government and private buildings, while Bangladeshi missions abroad are also observing the day.

The President and Prime Minister are scheduled to place wreaths at the National Memorial, followed by family members of Bir Shrestha awardees, injured freedom fighters, and other veterans. Foreign diplomats in Dhaka will also pay their respects.

The President will host a reception at Bangabhaban for decorated freedom fighters and families of Bir Shrestha recipients.

A national parade and fly-past are set to take place at the National Parade Square at 9am, attended by both the President and the Prime Minister. The event will be open to the public, with visitors advised not to carry bags.

Across the country, educational institutions are organising essay, recitation and art competitions, alongside discussions on the significance of the Liberation War. Similar programmes are being held at Bangladeshi missions abroad.

Naval and Coast Guard vessels at key river ports, including Chattogram, Mongla, Payra and Sadarghat, have been opened to the public from morning until sunset.

Cultural programmes, sports competitions such as football, T20 cricket, kabaddi and ha-du-du, and free screenings of Liberation War films are also part of the celebrations.

Museums are open free of charge, while special programmes are being broadcast by Bangladesh Television and Bangladesh Betar.
Special prayers are being offered at mosques, temples, churches and pagodas, seeking peace for the departed souls of the martyrs and continued progress for the nation.

Meals are being arranged at hospitals, prisons, children’s care centres and welfare institutions nationwide.

Political parties, including the ruling Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and opposition Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, along with various organisations, have also announced separate programmes to observe the day.