The 103rd birth anniversary of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the National Children’s Day was celebrated with due solemnity and joyous atmosphere at the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi on Friday.

Md. Mustafizur Rahman, High Commissioner of Bangladesh to India, started the daylong programme by hoisting the national flag at the High Commission premises and placing floral wreaths on the portrait of the Father of the Nation.

In the morning, a discussion programme was organized at the High Commission as part of the celebration.

The messages issued by the President, Prime Minister, Foreign Minister and State Minister for Foreign Affairs on the occasion of the day were read out by the Mission officials.

Also Read: Bangladesh remembers Bangabandhu on his 103rd birth anniversary

In his speech, High Commissioner Rahman recalled with veneration Bangabandhu’s charismatic leadership in various struggles that took place on the way to the emergence of Bangladesh as an independent and sovereign state.

He said, “Bangabandhu became the undisputed leader of the Bangalee nation due to his profound political wisdom, visionary leadership, extraordinary self-sacrifice and boundless compassion for the people.”

The High Commissioner called upon everyone to continue their efforts in building ‘Smart Bangladesh’ under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, holding Bangabandhu’s ideals in their hearts.

Among others, Member of Parliament Arma Dutta, eminent journalist and columnist Abed Khan and Barrister Tania Amir took part in the discussion and highlighted the significance and importance of the day.

A documentary on Bangabandhu was also screened on the occasion.

After the discussion session, 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 of Bangladesh as well as well as for the peace, progress and prosperity of the country under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

Officials and employees from the Bangladesh High Commission and expatriate Bangladeshis were present at the event.

In the evening, a cultural programme was organized at Bangabandhu Hall of the High Commission with the participation of children.

On the occasion of Bangabandhu’s birthday, the event begins with the cutting of a special cake in the presence of children. In this event, the Father of the Nation will be remembered through his historic 7thMarch speech as well as poems and songs written on Bangabandhu.

A documentary on Bangabandhu’s life and work screened before the children.

On the occasion, essay writing, drawing and sports competitions were also organized by the High Commission for children. In the evening, the High Commissioner distributed the prizes among the winners of these competitions.