In a departure from tradition, the 16 December Victory Day celebrations will not feature the customary parades and displays at the district and upazila levels. Instead, the day will see the launch of a nationwide "Bijoy Mela", a vibrant cultural fair that will engage people of all ages and backgrounds, said Faruk-e-Azam, the adviser on Liberation War Affairs.
During an interview with UNB, he explained, "Victory Day has always been a significant occasion for the nation, with the victory of the 1971 Liberation War being hard-earned over nine months of struggle, the celebrations have evolved over time."
"In the past, Victory Day was widely celebrated across the country, particularly in the villages. Over time, however, this festival had become less active. This year, we are reviving it with a Bijoy Mela in every district and upazila," he said.
The "Bijoy Mela" will feature a variety of activities, including traditional arts and crafts fairs, agricultural product displays, and exhibitions of locally-made goods. The event is expected to attract participation from children, women, and men alike and will be complemented by cultural performances to ensure a festive atmosphere. Schools will also hold their own celebrations in parallel.
Reflecting on the past practice of military parades, Azam remarked that these events lacked direct public involvement, as they were primarily attended by scouts, volunteers, and other uniformed personnel.
"This year, the focus is on engaging all sections of the population—children, women, and men," he said.
When asked about the National Parade Square, Azam clarified that there would be no parade this year due to the ongoing commitments of the military across the country.
"The preparation for such an event requires significant advance planning, and with the army's current involvement in other national duties, it will not be possible to hold the parade this year."
In terms of high-profile events, the adviser confirmed that the chief adviser would not be attending the Victory Day programme at the National Stadium. Instead, the government will focus on recognising the contributions of the freedom fighters.
"Each district and upazila will honour freedom fighters at local ceremonies, with district administrations in Dhaka overseeing the arrangements," he explained.
As part of the Victory Day observances, both the president and the chief adviser will lay wreaths at the National Memorial in Savar to pay tribute to the martyrs.
On 14 December, they will also visit the National Intellectuals’ Graveyard to participate in an event, followed by a discussion at Rayer Bazar.
This year’s celebrations promise to bring the nation together in a spirit of unity and cultural pride, with the focus firmly placed on inclusivity and public participation.
