On December 16, 2024, the 53rd Vijay Diwas was celebrated, with important festivities held in Dhaka and Kolkata to remember the historic triumph of Bangladeshi and Indian soldiers in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War.
Delegations from Bangladesh and India participated in the combined commemorations. Eight Muktijoddhas (liberation fighters) from Bangladesh and two active officers travelled to Kolkata with Indian officials to honour the warfighters. At the same time, two active officers and eight Indian war veterans attended Bangladesh’s Victory Day festivities in Dhaka.
Indian Army bands performed patriotic tunes to start the day in Kolkata. At Fort William, military leaders, including Lieutenant General Ram Chander Tiwari and West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose, lay wreaths in remembrance of the dead troops as a chopper rained flowers over the Vijay Smarak.
The sacrifices made by soldiers during the conflict were recognised by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who emphasised their bravery and commitment to defending the country. His remembrance emphasised the timeless spirit of bravery that motivates next generations.
East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) was freed as a result of India’s resounding military victory over Pakistan on Vijay Diwas. The 13-day conflict came to an end on December 16, 1971, when about 93,000 Pakistani soldiers submitted. This day not only represents
The military’s valour and strategic prowess during one of the shortest conflicts in modern history are commemorated on Vijay Diwas. In addition to celebrating the sacrifices made for freedom and independence, the celebration fosters national togetherness. Across India, it is commemorated with a variety of rituals, such as cultural celebrations and military parades.
The collaborative participation of military veterans demonstrated a mutual appreciation for their shared past, but this year’s ceremonies were more poignant in light of current tensions between Bangladesh and India.
