Independence Day — History, Date & Significance
Independence Day on March 26 marks the declaration of Bangladesh’s independence in 1971 and the beginning of the Liberation War. It is a national holiday observed with flag hoisting, parades, and tributes to the martyrs of the war.
Independence Day 2027 — Next Date
- English Date
- Friday, March 26, 2027
- Bengali Date
- 12 Chaitra 1433
- Hijri Date
- 16 Shawwal 1448 AH
- Days Left
- 261 days
History of Independence Day
In the early hours of March 26, 1971 — after the Pakistani army launched the brutal Operation Searchlight crackdown on the night of March 25 — the independence of Bangladesh was declared. The declaration was broadcast from Chattogram and rebroadcast from the Kalurghat radio station, calling the nation to resistance. What followed was a nine-month Liberation War that ended in victory on December 16, 1971.
March 26 has been observed as Independence Day since 1972 and is one of the most solemn national days of Bangladesh. It honors both the declaration of independence and the millions who sacrificed their lives in the war that secured it. The day opens with a gun salute and tributes at the National Martyrs’ Memorial in Savar.
How Independence Day Is Celebrated
- Gun salute at dawn and national flag hoisting on all buildings
- Wreath-laying at the National Martyrs’ Memorial in Savar
- Parades, physical displays, and children’s programs at stadiums nationwide
- Patriotic songs, dramas, and documentaries on television and radio
- Special prayers for the martyrs of the Liberation War
Independence Day Dates — Next 5 Years
| Year | Date | Day | Bengali Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2027* | March 26, 2027 | Friday | 12 Chaitra 1433 |
| 2028* | March 26, 2028 | Sunday | 12 Chaitra 1434 |
| 2029* | March 26, 2029 | Monday | 12 Chaitra 1435 |
| 2030* | March 26, 2030 | Tuesday | 12 Chaitra 1436 |
| 2031* | March 26, 2031 | Wednesday | 12 Chaitra 1437 |
* Dates for future years are calculated estimates and may change when the official government calendar is announced.
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore More Holidays
Pohela Boishakh
April 14, 2027
Eid-ul-Fitr
March 11, 2027
Eid-ul-Adha
May 18, 2027
Durga Puja
October 20, 2026
Victory Day
December 16, 2026
Ekushey February
February 21, 2027
Shab-e-Barat
January 25, 2027
Shab-e-Qadr
March 7, 2027
Ashura
June 16, 2027
Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi
August 26, 2026
Buddha Purnima
May 20, 2027
Janmashtami
September 4, 2026
Christmas Day
December 25, 2026
May Day
May 1, 2027
July Mass Uprising Day
August 5, 2026