Bangladesh is all set to celebrate the 52nd Independence and National Day today (Saturday) with programmes that feature paying homage to the Liberation War martyrs and a fresh vow to materialise their dreams.
On March 26, 1971, Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman proclaimed Bangladesh's independence following the crackdown on unarmed Bangalees on the midnight of March 25 by Pakistani occupation forces, reports UNB.
After a nine-month War of Liberation with the supreme sacrifices of three million people and the honour of 200,000 women, Bangladesh finally achieved its victory on December 16, 1971.
The day, which is a public holiday, will begin with 21-gun salute and placing of wreaths at the National Memorial at Savar in honour of the Liberation War martyrs.
President Md Abdul Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will place wreaths early in the morning showing profound respect to the memories of the martyrs.
National flag will be hoisted at all government, semi-government, private,autonomous buildings with the sunrise and all the significant buildings, establishments will be illuminated.
National dailies will bring out special supplements while Bangladesh Betar, Bangladesh Television, private radio stations and television channels will air special programmes highlighting the significance of the day.
Bangla Academy, Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy Shishu Academy, National Museum, Liberation War Museum and other social, cultural organisations will arrange seminars, cultural programmes, painting and sports competitions for children as well as screening films, documentaries on the liberation war.
Freedom fighters and martyr's families will be honoured on metropolitan, district and upazila level. Bangladesh Post Office Department will unveil a special commemorative stamp to mark the day.
Meanwhile different religious organisations will hold special prayers and doa mehfil praying for the country's peace, development and prosperity.
On the eve of the day, President Abdul Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina issued separate messages extending heartfelt greetings and warm felicitations to the countrymen at home and abroad.
In his message, President Abdul Hamid said, "In order to achieve the desired goal of Independence, we must ensure people-oriented and sustainable development, good governance, social justice, transparency and accountability. Forbearance, human rights and rule of law have to be consolidated for institutionalising democracy."
"It is our sacred duty to ensure a safe, happy, beautiful and prosperous Bangladesh for the new generation," he added.
Prime minister Sheikh Hasina in her message said, "We are fortunate to have simultaneously celebrated the 2020-2021 birth centenary of the Father of the Nation, Mujib Barsha, and the Golden Jubilee of independence through colorful programs."
She also urged all to be united and nurture the spirit and ideals of the Great Liberation War and participate in building the hunger-poverty-free, self-confident and self-respecting 'Golden Bangladesh' of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's dream.