March 7 observed

FE Team | Published: March 08, 2024 00:36:33

March 7 observed

The historic March 7, a memorable day in the history of Bangalee's long and arduous freedom struggle, was observed across the country on Thursday in a befitting manner.
In 2017, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) recognised the historic March 7 Speech of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman as a world documentary heritage, reports UNB.
On this day in 1971, Bangabandhu, the undisputed leader of Bangalees, delivered his epoch-making speech of independence before a mammoth rally at then historic Race course Maidan, now Suhrawardy Udyan, in Dhaka city.
In his 19-minute extempore speech before a million freedom-loving people, Bangabandhu had made a clarion call for a non-cooperation movement asking the nation to prepare for the war of independence to liberate the country from the exploitative Pakistan regime.
"The struggle this time is for freedom, the struggle this time is for independence, Joy Bangla," Bangabandhu declared from the massive rally.
In his speech, compared with US President Abraham Lincoln's historic Gettysburg speech, Bangabandhu said: "Since we have learnt to give blood, we'll give more blood. Insha Allah, the people of this country must be liberated...turn every house into a fort. Face (the enemy) with whatever you have."
His speech worked like a magic spell inspiring the entire Bangalee nation to join the struggle for independence from the autocratic and repressive rule of the then Pakistani military junta.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina commenced the day by paying tribute to Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman by placing a wreath at his portrait in Dhanmondi-32, commemorating the pivotal March 7.
The homage took place in front of the Bangabandhu Memorial Museum at 7 am, where the Prime Minister stood in solemn silence, honouring the memory and legacy of Bangladesh's independence architect.
Accompanied by key figures from the Bangladesh Awami League, Sheikh Hasina offered another wreath on behalf of the party, demonstrating collective reverence for Bangabandhu.
Following the Prime Minister's lead, representatives from Awami League's associate organisations, including Awami Jubo League, Chhatra League, Mohila Awami League, Sramik League, Krishak League, Jubo Mohila League, and Swechchhasebok League, also paid their respects, marking the occasion with wreath-laying.
Besides, Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi paid homage to Bangabandhu.
Md. Mustafizur Rahman, High Commissioner of Bangladesh to India, initiated the programme by hoisting the national flag at the chancery premises and placing floral wreaths at the portrait of the Father of the Nation along with the Mission officials.
A discussion programme was organized at the Bangabandhu Hall of the Mission.
On the occasion of the historic March 7, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh also paid tribute to Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
In addition, Bangladesh Betar and Bangladesh Television as well as private television channels and radio stations aired special programmes on the occasion while national dailies published supplements.