Nation celebrates 56th Independence Day today

President, PM to pay homage at National Martyrs' Memorial in Savar

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FE REPORT | Published: March 26, 2026 00:15:57

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Bangladesh is celebrating its 56th Independence and National Day today (Thursday) through a wide range of programmes to pay due respect to freedom fighters and highlight the significance of the day.
People from all strata of society will pay homage at the memorials of martyrs for their noble sacrifices to make Bangladesh an independent nation.
The placing of floral wreaths in monuments; events honouring the families of the martyrs; and discussions, seminars, and cultural competitions highlighting the significance of the day will take place under official as well as private arrangements.
Following ruthless atrocities executed by the Pakistan army on the night of March 25 in 1971, known as Black Night, the nation began armed battle against the invaders the following day.
This endeavour was accomplished after nine months of war on December 16 of the same year.
During the 1971 Liberation War, 3.0 million people were killed and around 200,000 women were subjected to sexual violence.
Since then, the nation has been celebrating March 26 as the Independence Day and a national day.
This is the second Independence Day after the fall of Sheikh Hasina government, and the first after the BNP formed government.
The day's events will commence with 31 gun salutes early in the morning in all districts and upazilas of the country, including Dhaka.
President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will pay homage to the National Martyrs' Memorial in Savar.
Also, cabinet members, opposition leaders, and different political, social, professional, and voluntary platforms will place floral wreaths at the monument to show their respect.
The president and the prime minister issued special messages on the occasion, according to handouts circulated by the Press Information Department (PID).
In his statement, the president said independence was the greatest achievement of the 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."
"I also pay a humble tribute to Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, Bir Uttam, along with all valiant freedom fighters, the persecuted mothers and sisters, the national leaders and organisers, and the countless people from all walks of life who made outstanding and significant contributions to our historic struggle for freedom," he added.
The prime minister said the people must uphold in their hearts the spirit of national unity, mutual tolerance, and patriotism to further accelerate the progress and development of our beloved motherland.
"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.