C T Online Desk: March 26, 2026– The 56th Independence and National Day was observed across the country today in a befitting manner.
The armed struggle for independence formally began in the early hours of March 26, 1971, following the brutal crackdown on unarmed people on the ‘Black Night’ of March 25. Thus, March 26 is observed as the Independence and National Day.
After a nine-month War of Liberation and the supreme sacrifices of three million people, Bangladesh achieved its cherished independence on December 16, 1971.
Different districts have taken elaborate programmes to observe the day with due respect.
In Tangail, the district observed the Independence and National Day with due respect and solemnity on Thursday through a series of commemorative events and activities.
The day began at sunrise with a 31-gun salute, followed by the hoisting of the national flag across the district.
Deputy Commissioner Sharifa Haque, representing the government, placed the first wreath at the martyrs’ memorial located near the district headquarters water tank.
She was followed by Superintendent of Police Muhammad Shamsul Alam Sarkar, Zila Parishad Administrator Obaidul Haque Nasir, Sadar Upazila Nirbahi Officer Md. Shahin Mia and representatives from various sectors of society, who paid tribute by laying wreaths.
Special prayers were later offered seeking eternal peace for the departed souls of the martyrs.
Various social, cultural, and political organizations—including the district BNP, district Women’s Party, Tangail Press Club and Print Media Association—also paid homage at the Shaheed Smriti Municipal Park memorial monument.
At 9:00 am, the national flag was ceremonially hoisted at Shaheed Maruf Stadium, where the national anthem was performed. The event featured participation from students of different educational institutions, along with a parade and a photo exhibition highlighting the spirit of independence.
As part of the day’s observances, improved meals were served at hospitals, government children’s homes, rehabilitation centers for street children, facilities for persons with disabilities, old age homes, and shelters for the homeless.
Additionally, special prayers were organized at the District Shilpakala Academy to honor freedom fighters. Religious institutions across the district—including mosques, temples, churches, and pagodas—held prayers at convenient times, seeking peace, prosperity, and continued development of the nation.
In Bogura, the 56th Independence and National Day was celebrated in the district with due solemnity, patriotic spirit, and colorful programmes, commemorating the heroic sacrifices of the 1971 Liberation War.
Deputy Commissioner Md. Taufiqur Rahman paid tribute to the martyrs by laying wreaths at the Fulbari Memorial. People from all walks of life, including officials, professionals, and local residents, also gathered to honor the heroes.
Later, at 8:00 am, the Deputy Commissioner hoisted the national flag at Shaheed Chandu Stadium as the chief guest, in the presence of senior administrative officials.
A vibrant parade followed, featuring more than 60 disciplined contingents from Bangladesh Police, Ansar and VDP, BNCC, Fire Service and Civil Defence, and members of Scouts and Girls Guides from various educational institutions. The participants performed a march past, saluting the national flag to the rhythm of a band.
Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner paid deep respect to the martyrs and freedom fighters, as well as to the families who sacrificed during the war. He emphasized that independence represents not only territorial sovereignty but also the values of equality, human dignity, and social justice.
“Achieving independence was difficult, but safeguarding it is even more challenging,” he said, urging the younger generation to uphold patriotism and moral values in building a prosperous Bangladesh.
The programme concluded with the distribution of prizes among the winners of the parade and display events. Various government and private institutions across the district also organized day-long programs to mark the historic occasion.
In Netrakona, Independence Day and National Day was observed with great reverence and celebration in the district today with a series of events organized by the district administration throughout the day.
The day’s events began with a ceremonial 31-gun salute at the Collectorate Bhaban premises at sunrise, followed by wreath-laying ceremonies at various key locations. A solemn tribute was paid to the martyrs of the Liberation War at the memorial plaques of the fallen heroes at both the Collectorate Bhaban and the Satpai Memorial.
The official flag-hoisting ceremony took place at 8:00 AM at the Netrakona Modern Stadium, accompanied by the playing of the national anthem. A lively rally, parade, and display by students followed, adding to the festive atmosphere.
At 11:00 AM, a special program was held at the local public hall to honor the district’s brave freedom fighters, recognizing their contributions to the country’s independence.
In the afternoon, the district administration extended its compassion by providing high-quality food to hospitals, prisons, children’s families, and various orphanages, sharing the spirit of the day with those in need.
A heroic documentary and stories of the Liberation War were screened at Moktarpara field, while a kabaddi competition took place at the Modern Stadium, offering further entertainment for the community.
The day ended with special prayers and services held at all religious places of worship in the district, uniting people across communities in remembrance and gratitude.
In Jashore, the Independence Day was observed with due dignity and enthusiasm across the district today through a series of elaborate programs organized by the district administration and various institutions.
The day’s programme began at sunrise with a ceremonial 21-gun salute at the Victory memorial located at Manihar Square. Simultaneously, the national flag was hoisted at government, semi-government, autonomous, and private establishments throughout the district.
Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Ashek Hasan, Superintendent of Police Rafiqul Islam and Zila Parishad Administrator Delwar Hossain Khokon paid floral tributes at the Victory memorial in the morning.
Leaders and activists of BNP, led by its Central Committee Vice Chairman Nargis Islam, also placed wreaths, alongside representatives from different political, social, and cultural organizations, as well as freedom fighters and educational institutions.
In Mymensingh, the Independence and National Day was observed in Mymensingh with due dignity and solemnity on Thursday, marking the historic occasion with a series of commemorative events.
The day’s formal proceedings began at sunrise with a 31-gun salute at the Jut Gudam Liberation War Memorial in the city. Following this, local dignitaries paid rich tributes to the martyrs of the Bangladesh Liberation War by placing floral wreaths at the memorial.
Mymensingh Sadar constituency Member of Parliament Abu Wahab Akand, Divisional Commissioner Farah Shammi, Range DIG Ataul Kibria, Mymensingh City Corporation Administrator Rukunozjamamon Rukon, Deputy Commissioner Saifur Rahman and Superintendent of Police Mohammad Kamrul Hasan paid tribute to the brave martyrs by laying flowers.
People from all walks of life, including representatives of the District Council, Muktijoddha Sangsad, District and Metropolitan BNP, along with various political, social, cultural organizations, and educational institutions, participated in the programme.
Later in the morning, a parade and physical exercise display were held at the district stadium, featuring participation from members of the police, other forces, and students from various educational institutions.
To mark the occasion, the district administration organized day-long programs, including receptions for freedom fighters, discussion meetings, sports competitions, and screenings of films based on the Liberation War.
Besides, the 56th Independence and National Day was observed others districts including Shariatpur, Sherpur, Kishoreganj, Feni, Munshiganj, Pirojpur, Bandarban, Patuakhali, Bagerhat, Cumilla, Chandpur, Naogaon, Rajbari, Rangamati, Gopalganj, Chapainawabganj, Manikganj, Sirajganj, Dinajpur, Joypurhat, Gaibandha, Narayanganj, Kushtia, Cox’s Bazar, Habiganj, Natore, Meherpur, Khagrachhari, Sunamganj, Lakshmipur, Narail, Thakurgaon, Panchagarh, Kurigram, Sylhet.
