In a significant gesture of tribute to the nation’s martial legacy, President M Abdul Hamid paid a formal visit to the Bangabandhu Military Museum at Bijoy Sarani in the capital on Wednesday evening. As the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Division, the President’s visit underscored the state’s commitment to preserving the history, valour, and technological evolution of Bangladesh’s military services.
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A Landmark of Architectural Excellence
The Bangabandhu Military Museum, spread across a sprawling 10-acre site on the western side of the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Novo Theater, is widely regarded as a triumph of modern architecture. It serves as a comprehensive repository of the nation’s military journey, from the nascent days of the 1971 Liberation War to its current status as a formidable modern force.
Upon his arrival, President Hamid was warmly received by the Principal Staff Officer (PSO) of the Armed Forces Division, Lieutenant General Waker-Uz-Zaman, along with senior officers from the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The President was provided with a detailed briefing on the museum’s establishment, its mission to inspire the youth, and its role in documenting the incredible bravery shown by freedom fighters.
Structure and Key Features of the Museum
The museum is meticulously organised into six distinct sections, ensuring that the history of each branch of the military is given due prominence.
| Section / Gallery | Description |
| Bangladesh Army Gallery | Showcases infantry weapons, tanks, and accounts of ground warfare valour. |
| Bangladesh Navy Gallery | Highlights maritime heritage, naval strategies, and submarine models. |
| Bangladesh Air Force Gallery | Displays fighter jets, radar technology, and the history of the “Kilo Flight.” |
| Liberation War Gallery | A dedicated space for the 1971 struggle, featuring rare artefacts and medals. |
| Toshakhana Museum | Features gifts and accolades received by state dignitaries over decades. |
| Multimedia Zone | Includes 3D cinemas and interactive displays for an immersive experience. |
A Family Visit and Evening Commemoration
The President was accompanied by his family members, including his eldest son, Rezwan Ahmmad Taufiq, MP, as well as secretaries and senior civil-military officials. Together, they toured the various galleries, observing the vast collection of weaponry, ammunition, and success stories that define the Armed Forces.
A highlight of the visit was the “Light and Sound Display” held near the museum’s central fountain. This world-class multimedia show utilises state-of-the-art technology to narrate the history of Bangladesh through a synchronised dance of water, light, and acoustics. Following the display, the President moved to the “President’s Corner,” where he signed the visitors’ book, leaving a message of appreciation for the museum authority’s role in safeguarding national history.
The Significance of the Museum
The Bangabandhu Military Museum is not merely a collection of hardware; it is a symbol of national identity. By showcasing the evolution of the forces, it serves as an educational hub for researchers and citizens alike. The exchange of ceremonial crests between the President and the Museum Authority further cemented the bond between the state leadership and the guardians of the country’s military heritage.
Through this visit, the President highlighted that while the military looks toward the future with modernisation and technology, its strength remains rooted in the spirit of the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and the sacrifices made during the birth of the nation.