Bangladesh celebrates a momentous day in its history on Thursday. It is historic March 7.
On this day in 1971, Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman addressed a million-strong crowd at Suhrawardy Udyan (formerly Race Course Maidan) and in his stirring oratory urged the people to fight for freedom from Pakistan's colonial rule.
His words inspired every heart present: "Turn your homes into fortresses; resist with everything you have.... Having learned how to make great sacrifices, we'll give more blood if need be – God willing! We will free our land!"
This momentous address profoundly inspired Bengalis to fight for their freedom during the 1971 War of Liberation. The speech gained a place on the “Memory of the World International Register” – an esteemed list maintained by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
On October 30, 2017, UNESCO declared the famous speech of Bangabandhu as part of the global documentary heritage.
Amidst the mammoth crowd on March 7, 1971, Bangabandhu spoke with determination and passion, firmly declaring: “We have spilled our blood ... we are ready to shed more” in order for the people of Bangladesh to be liberated.
His ringing command -- "ebarer sangram amader muktir sangram, ebarer sangram swadhinatar songrom" [The struggle this time is a struggle for our emancipation, the struggle this time is a struggle for independence] -- resonated across the rally as his unwavering commitment resounded throughout former East Pakistan.
Bangabandhu's passionate plea for freedom echoed throughout the entire nation, stirring up a powerful call to action.
He boldly asked that every household be transformed into a stronghold in preparation for armed struggle against Pakistani oppression and tyranny.
Comparable to Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Speech in 1863, Bangabandhu’s words inspired an impassioned cry of "Bir Bangalee Astra Dharo Bangladesh Swadhin Karo" - meaning bravely take up arms and liberate Bangladesh from subjugation.
Bangladesh's historical roots are undoubtedly anchored in the legendary, timeless words of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and his indelible March 7 speech.
Recognized as one of the most stirring speeches in a span of time reaching back 2,500 years, it has continued to inspire generations with its unparalleled power and influence.
This momentous address acted as a spontaneous energizing of Bangladesh’s citizens in their quest for freedom from the Pakistani occupation forces.
Following a night of genocide unleashed by Pakistan's forces on March 25, all people from different backgrounds and ideologies were galvanized to join together in an effort for freedom.
In response to this brutal attack, Bangabandhu declared independence with a sense of urgency, and said that citizens must continue their fight until full liberation. Freedom was achieved on December 16 1971.
To commemorate the historic day, a series of elaborate programs have been undertaken by different political and socio-cultural organizations.
The ruling Awami League will begin proceedings at 6:30am with the hoisting of both national and party flags from its central office as well as Bangabandhu Bhaban.
Furthermore, leaders and activists will come together to pay tributes through floral wreaths placed at 32 Dhanmondi.
A discussion on the occasion has been scheduled today at Dhaka Zila Awami League office, with Awami League President Sheikh Hasina scheduled to be present.
Obaidul Quader, General Secretary of the Awami League, has issued a statement calling upon party branches across all parts of Bangladesh to make plans similar to those of the central leadership of the party, according to a press release signed by Awami League Office Secretary Biplab Barua.On the other hand, the Awami League research wing CRI and its youth wing Young Bangla are arranging a mega concert named “Joy Bangla concert” at Chittagong M A Aziz Stadium this afternoon to celebrate this historic day.
