The 104th birth anniversary of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the National Children’s Day was celebrated with due solemnity and fervour at the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi.
Md. Mustafizur Rahman, High Commissioner of Bangladesh to India, inaugurated the daylong programme by hoisting the national flag at the High Commission premises and placing floral wreath at the portrait of the Father of the Nation, reports UNB.
In the morning, a discussion programme was organized at the High Commission as part of the celebration.
At the beginning of the programme, the messages issued by the President, Prime Minister, and Foreign Minster were read out by the Mission officials.
In his speech, High Commissioner Rahman said Bangabandhu and Bangladesh are synonymous.
"By breaking the shackles of exploitation, oppression, deprivation, and subjugation of a hundred years, he showed the path of liberation to the Bangalee nation," he said.
He underscored the need for inculcating Bangabandhu’s humane qualities in children to makethe future leaders of the country.
The High Commissioner also called upon everyone to continue their efforts in building ‘Smart Bangladesh’ under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, holding Bangabandhu’s ideals intheir hearts.
Among others, Brigadier General Md. Hafizur Rahman, Defence Adviser of the High Commission, took part in the discussion and highlighted the significance and importance of the day.
In the evening, a cultural programme was organized at the Bangabandhu Hall of the High Commission with the participation of children.
The event began with the cutting of a special cake in the presence of children. In this event, the Father of the Nation was remembered through his historic 7th March speech as well as poems, stories, and songs written on Bangabandhu. Finally, a documentary on Bangabandhu’s life and work was screened before the children.
On the occasion of the day, the High Commission also organized essay, poetry recitation, painting, quiz, and sports competitions for the children. In the evening, the High Commissioner distributed prizes among the winners of these competitions.
In the end, a special prayer was offered for the salvation of the souls of the Father of the Nation, his family members and all the martyrs who played a historical role in all stages of movements for freedom and Liberation War as well as for the peace, progress and prosperity of Bangladesh.
Officials and employees from the Bangladesh High Commission, expatriate Bangladeshis, and many children attended the programmes.
Bd-pratidin English/Lutful Hoque
