Bangladesh Independence Day

Bangladesh Independence Day

March 26

This public holiday celebrates the declaration of the existence of the state of Bangladesh on March 26, 1971. When India gained independence from Britain in 1947, the region that is now Bangladesh was part of Bengal, India. It became East Pakistan and was governed together with West Pakistan as one country. The movement for autonomy in East Pakistan began in 1949. By early 1971, differences between East and West Pakistan had led to war. India entered the war in November in support of East Pakistan, and independence was assured within a month ( see Bangladesh Victory Day).
Bangladeshis observe their national holiday of independence in the capital city of Dhaka with memorial ceremonies, a boat race on the Buriganga river, and other festivities.

CONTACTS:
Bangladesh Embassy
3510 International Dr. N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20008
202-244-0183; fax: 202-244-2771
www.bangladoot.org

SOURCES:
AnnivHol-2000, p. 51

Celebration day: Mar 26