- 16 December every year
- End of the 1971 Liberation War
- National holiday
- Bangladesh
Where it began
After 1947, the land that is now Bangladesh was East Pakistan. Over the years many Bengalis sought more rights for their language and their region, starting with the Language Movement of 1952.
Independence was declared on 26 March 1971, and a nine month war followed. On 16 December 1971 the war ended in Dhaka, and Bangladesh became a free nation. Victory Day remembers that day and the many lives lost on the road to it.
How it grew over time
1952
The Language Movement called for Bangla to be a state language.
26 March 1971
Independence was declared, a day now kept as Independence Day.
16 December 1971
The war ended in Dhaka and Bangladesh was born.
1972
Victory Day was declared a national holiday.
Today
The day is marked across the country with wreaths, parades and cultural events.
How it is celebrated in different places
Savar
Leaders and people lay flowers at the National Martyrs' Memorial at dawn.
Dhaka
A parade is held at the National Parade Ground and buildings glow with lights.
Towns and villages
Schools hold songs, poems and sports, and houses fly the red and green flag.
Bangladeshi diaspora
Communities in the UK, US and the Gulf hold gatherings with music and food.
Bangladesh Victory Day today
The day starts with a gun salute and flowers at memorials. People wear red and green, sing patriotic songs and share stories of the freedom fighters. Evening events bring music and lights.
