Independence Day celebrated

The nation has celebrated the 48th Independence and National Day with a fresh vow to take Bangladesh towards prosperity with the spirit of Liberation War. On March 26, 1971, Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman declared Bangladesh's independence following the crackdown on unarmed Bangalees on the midnight of March 25 by the Pakistani occupation forces.

After the nine-month War of Liberation with the supreme sacrifices of three million martyrs and the honor of two lakh women, Bangladesh achieved its cherished independence on December 16, 1971. The day is a public holiday.

Different socio-cultural and political organizations have chalked out elaborate programs on the occasion. National anthem 'Amar Sonar Bangla' will be sung simultaneously across the country and Bangladesh missions abroad. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina led the nation in singing the national anthem at the main program of 'Jatiya Shishu Kishore Samabesh' at Bangabandhu National Stadium.

The President and the Prime Minister placed wreaths at the National Mausoleum at Savar in the morning.The national flag was hoisted atop government and private buildings while the government and semi-government buildings and other public places will be illuminated.

National dailies brought out special supplements while Bangladesh Betar, Bangladesh Television, private radio stations and television channels will air special programs highlighting the significance of the day.

Special prayers were offered at all mosques, temples, churches and other places of worship across the country seeking divine blessings for the eternal peace of the departed souls of Father of the Nation, four national leaders, martyrs of Liberation War and all other patriotic sons of the soil.

Different political parties have drawn elaborate programs to observe the day in a befitting manner.Meanwhile, President Abdul Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina have issued separate messages on the occasion.