Victory Day to feature nationwide fairs instead of parade: Adviser Farooq-e-Azam

Bangladesh's Victory Day will be celebrated this time with nationwide "Victory Fairs" instead of the traditional parade at the National Parade Square, says Liberation War Affairs Adviser Farooq-e-Azam.

"Victory Day is an unparalleled day for our nation…the nation achieved this victory after nine months of war, with people from all over the country participating in the struggle," Farooq-e-Azam said in an interview with UNB.

Highlighting the new plan and format, the adviser said that Victory Day celebrations had historically been vibrant community events.

"Once, this victory festival was celebrated in villages across the country. Over time, these celebrations became less active. This year, we are reviving the festival at the district and upazila levels nationwide," he explained.

The Victory Fairs will feature art and craft exhibits, agricultural product displays, and showcases of domestic goods. Cultural programmes will include the participation of children, women, and men, making the celebration inclusive for all, Farooq-e-Azam said.

Schools will also host their own programmes as part of the festivities, he said.

For the first time in recent memory, the traditional parade at the National Parade Square will not be held.

Explaining this change, Farooq-e-Azam said, "The army is currently engaged in activities across the country, and organising the parade requires advance preparation, which wasn't feasible this year."

When asked if the Chief Adviser would participate in this year's celebrations, he clarified, "No, the Chief Adviser will not attend a parade because it is not happening this year. Instead, Victory Fairs will be organized at the district and upazila levels."

Special receptions and tributes for freedom fighters will be organized in every district and upazila, including Dhaka, under the local administration's guidance. "Freedom fighters and people from all local levels will participate actively in these events," Farooq-e-Azam said.

The Dhaka district administration will play a key role in organizing activities in the capital. Meanwhile, the Chief Adviser and President will lay wreaths at the National Monument as part of the day's commemorations.

On 14 December, the chief adviser and president will visit the National Intellectuals' Graveyard, where a solemn tribute will be paid to the martyrs. They will also participate in a discussion at Rayer Bazar.

"The shift in celebration format aims to bring more active public involvement and create a festive atmosphere in every part of the country," Farooq-e-Azam concluded.

 "This year's events are designed to reflect the spirit of Victory Day and engage citizens from all walks of life," he added.