Thousands of people from all walks of life paid tribute to the martyrs of the Liberation War at the National Martyrs’ Memorial in Savar on Thursday, marking the Great Independence and National Day.
The Shaheed Bedi of the memorial was covered with floral wreaths from the early hours of the morning, as people continued to arrive with flowers, banners, and national flags to honor the nation’s heroes.
President Muhammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman placed wreaths at the main altar around 6am, beginning the day’s official observances.
A solemn tune was played on bugles as a smartly turned-out contingent comprising members of the Bangladesh Army, Navy, and Air Force presented a state salute and guard of honor.
The president and the prime minister stood in silence for a few moments to pay deep respect to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the country’s independence.
Later, the prime minister, accompanied by members of the cabinet, paid further tribute. Leaders of various political parties, social and cultural organizations also placed wreaths one after another.
Following the official ceremonies, the memorial premises were opened to the public. Soon, the 84-acre National Martyrs’ Memorial complex turned into a gathering place for people from across the country. As the day progressed, the central altar became filled with countless floral offerings.
On the spot, groups of students from schools and colleges were seen arriving in procession, carrying flowers and festoons. Many visitors were also seen holding the national flag and chanting patriotic slogans.
Rabeya Khatun, a school teacher who came from Ashulia, said she visits the memorial every year to honor the martyrs.
“We achieved our country through their sacrifices. We are forever indebted to them, and coming here to pay tribute is a responsibility for me,” she said.
Jannatul Ferdous, a school student who visited the memorial with her friends, said she felt proud to be part of the tribute.
“We are proud of our martyrs. Bangladesh became known to the world because of their sacrifices. That is why we came here to pay our respect,” she said.
Mahmudul Hasan, a private employee from Mirpur, said Independence Day reminds citizens to renew their commitment to the country.
“Every year on March 26, I feel the need to pledge again to love and serve the country. The sacrifices of the martyrs continue to inspire us,” he added.
Sharmin Akter, a local resident who visited the memorial with her children, said she wanted the younger generation to learn about the nation’s history.
“If children understand the history of independence, they will grow up loving their country more,” she said.
School teacher Robiul Alam said: “I come to the National Memorial in Savar every year to pay my respects to those whose sacrifices gave us our country. We are forever indebted to them. That is why I have come to honor the children of the martyrs.”
Meanwhile, college student Tanzin Afroza said: “I came to the National Memorial with my friends. We are proud of our martyrs. It is because of their lives that we know this Bangladesh and our homeland. That is why we have come to pay our respects.”
Thursday marks Independence Day of Bangladesh. On this day in 1971, the call was made to free the country from Pakistani occupation, formally beginning the armed struggle of the Bangali nation.
After the declaration of independence, brave freedom fighters took part in a nine-month-long war against Pakistani forces. Following immense sacrifices and a bloody struggle, Bangladesh achieved independence and sovereignty on December 16, 1971, gaining its own national flag and national anthem.
Independence Day is observed as a public holiday across the country. On the occasion, separate messages were issued by President Md Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Tarek Rahman, while various programs, including discussions and cultural events, are being held nationwide to commemorate the historic day.
