The nation solemnly observes National Mourning Day today, commemorating the 47th martyrdom anniversary of the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. This tragic day marks the brutal assassination of Bangabandhu and most of his family members on the fateful night of 15th August 1975, an event widely regarded as the darkest chapter in the country’s history. His two daughters, Sheikh Hasina (now the Prime Minister) and Sheikh Rehana, survived the massacre as they were abroad at the time.
The Government has organised an extensive programme to observe the day at the national level. The national flag is being flown at half-mast across government, semi-government, autonomous institutions, educational establishments, and private buildings, including Bangladeshi missions abroad.
This morning, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina paid tribute to Bangabandhu by laying wreaths at his portrait in front of the Bangabandhu Memorial Museum at Dhanmondi Road No. 32, Dhaka. A guard of honour was presented by the armed forces, followed by prayers in remembrance of the slain leader. The Prime Minister also placed floral tributes at the graves of Bangabandhu’s family members and other martyrs at Banani Graveyard, where she offered Fateha and special prayers for their eternal peace.
In observance of the day, special prayers (doa and munajat) will be conducted at mosques across the country, including Baitul Mukarram National Mosque, following the Zuhr prayers. Prayers will also be held at temples, churches, pagodas, and other places of worship.
Cultural and Media Coverage
To mark the solemn occasion, national dailies and periodicals have published special supplements. The Department of Films and Publications (DFP) has distributed posters throughout the country, with English versions sent to diplomatic missions abroad. Meanwhile, the Department of Mass Communication is screening documentary films showcasing Bangabandhu’s life and contributions. Additionally, the Press Information Department (PID) is hosting a week-long photo exhibition at the Bangladesh Secretariat, with similar exhibitions being organised at the divisional level.
State broadcasters Bangladesh Betar and Bangladesh Television (BTV) are airing special programmes, while private television channels, FM radio stations, and community radio networks are broadcasting live events from key locations, including Dhanmondi, Banani, and Tungipara in Gopalganj.
Educational and Grassroots Commemorations
Educational institutions, both public and private, are actively engaging in remembrance activities. Schools, madrasahs, colleges, and universities are organising discussions, poetry recitations, essay-writing and painting competitions, art exhibitions, and religious observances.
At the district and Upazila levels, local authorities have scheduled discussion sessions and prayer gatherings. Government officials are mandated to participate in these events, ensuring widespread national involvement.
All city corporations, municipalities, and union parishads have also arranged commemorative events, reaffirming the collective commitment to honouring Bangabandhu’s legacy.
Political Tributes
The ruling Awami League (AL) has designed a comprehensive programme to observe National Mourning Day. The national and party flags are flying at half-mast, and black flags have been hoisted at all AL offices, including Bangabandhu Bhaban and the party’s central headquarters.
Party leaders and activists have paid tribute to Bangabandhu by placing wreaths at his portrait at Bangabandhu Memorial Museum, while additional tributes are being made at Banani Graveyard. Special prayers, Fateha offerings, and milad mahfils are also being held in memory of the martyrs.
A delegation from the Awami League Central Working Committee, alongside representatives from Gopalganj district and Tungipara Upazila units, will visit Bangabandhu’s mausoleum in Tungipara at noon. They will offer prayers, milad, and doa mahfils in his honour.
National Mourning Day Discussion
On 16th August, a commemorative discussion will be held at Bangabandhu International Conference Centre (BICC) at 4:30 pm, presided over by Awami League President and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The event aims to reflect on Bangabandhu’s ideals and his enduring impact on the nation’s history and future.
As the country remembers its greatest leader, the observance of National Mourning Day serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made for the nation’s independence and the continued commitment to upholding his vision for Bangladesh.