Independence Day of Bangladesh facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Independence Day |
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The first flag of independent Bangladesh. It was later replaced by the current one.
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| Official name | Independence Day of Bangladesh |
| Observed by | Bangladesh |
| Type | National holiday |
| Celebrations | Flag hoisting, parades, award ceremonies, singing patriotic songs and the national anthem, speeches by the President and Prime Minister, entertainment and cultural programs. |
| Date | 26 March |
| Next time | 26 March 2026 |
| Frequency | Annual |
Independence Day in Bangladesh is a special national holiday. It happens every year on 26 March. This day celebrates when Bangladesh declared its independence from Pakistan. This important event took place in the early hours of 26 March 1971.
Contents
A Nation's Journey to Freedom
In 1970, an election was held in Pakistan. Awami League, a big political party led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, won many seats in East Pakistan. But the leaders in West Pakistan did not want to give power to Sheikh Mujib. They started talks, but they didn't trust him.
It became clear that promises were not being kept. So, the people of East Pakistan, who spoke Bangla, began to fight for their freedom. On 7 March 1971, Sheikh Mujib gave a famous speech. He asked everyone to start a non-cooperation movement. This meant people would not work with the government.
On the night of 25 March, the Pakistan Army began a harsh operation called "Operation Searchlight." They started killing people in the streets. It was clear they would not allow a peaceful transfer of power.
Bangladesh declared its independence on 26 March 1971. Sheikh Mujibur Rahman made this declaration. Another declaration was read out on 27 March 1971 by Major Ziaur Rahman. He read it on behalf of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
The people of Bangladesh then fought a nine-month war for their independence. They fought against the Pakistan Army and their helpers. This war, called the Bangladesh Liberation War, was very difficult. About 3 million people lost their lives during this time. The freedom fighters, known as the Mukti Bahini, got help from India. They defeated the Pakistani Army. The war ended on 16 December 1971, when Pakistan surrendered.
How Independence Day is Celebrated
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Independence Day is a day of joy and remembrance. People celebrate with parades, speeches, and many public events. TV and radio stations play special shows and patriotic songs.
In the morning, there is a special gun salute. The main streets are decorated with national flags. Different groups and organizations hold events to honor the day. Many people visit the National Martyrs’ Memorial in Savar, near Dhaka. This memorial honors those who died for freedom.
In 2017, Google even showed a special picture (doodle) on its Bangladesh website to celebrate Independence Day. The year 2021 marked the 50th anniversary, or Golden Jubilee, of Bangladesh's independence.
The Independence Award
The Independence Day Award is a very important honor in Bangladesh. It is given to people or groups on the eve of Independence Day, March 26th. This award started in 1977.
It honors those who have made great contributions. This includes helping in the Independence War or the Bengali language movement. It also recognizes achievements in education, literature, journalism, public service, science, medicine, music, sports, and fine arts. Each year, many talented people are recognized for their outstanding work.
See also
