Bangladesh pays tribute to martyrs on Independence Day

President Md Abdul Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina have paid their tribute to the brave martyrs who gave their lives for the nation on the 48th anniversary of its independence.

It was on this day in 1971 that Bangalees took up arms in their struggle for independence against the occupying Pakistani forces, starting the Liberation War.

President Hamid and Prime Minister Hasina presented flowers at the National Martyrs’ Memorial in Savar at 6 am on Tuesday.

A decorated team from the armed forces presented a state salute. Bugles rang out, playing a mournful tune. The president and prime minister observed a moment of silence in memory of those who sacrificed their lives for the independence of the nation.

Members of cabinet, justices, the heads of the three armed forces and other top state officials were also in attendance.

After the president and prime minister departed, freedom fighters, members of parliament, foreign diplomats, representatives from political and social organisations and people from all walks of life came to the memorial to pay their respects.

A crowd had started to gather at the National Martyrs’ Memorial before the break of dawn on Tuesday. It only grew in size as the day wore on.

Upon her return from Savar, Prime Minister Hasina went to Dhanmondi Road 32 to present flowers at the portrait of Bangbandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

Bangladesh ushered in Independence Day with a 31-gun salute at dawn on Tuesday. After paying tribute to the martyrs and Bangabandhu, the prime minister made her way to a rally for children and youth at the Bangbandhu National Stadium.

After Sheikh Hasina arrived, the national anthem was sung simultaneously across the country.

A children and youth rally had been held from Mar 10 to Mar 18 at Bangabandhu Stadium. The winners of the national anthem singing contest at the event will be presented with awards.

Hasina, the head of the government, will then observe the Independence Day Parade.