In a grand celebration marking the nation’s Independence and National Day, the historic National Parade Square at the old city airport became the stage for a vibrant parade and an enthralling aerial flypast. The ceremonial event, filled with colour, pomp, and patriotism, was attended by President Mohammad Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Tarek Rahman.
The festivities commenced shortly after 10 a.m. on Thursday, 26 March, when President Shahabuddin arrived at the National Parade Square. He was formally received by Prime Minister Rahman, who welcomed him with a customary salute. Following the welcome, the President conducted a thorough inspection of the parade contingents and received ceremonial honours from the assembled troops.
Thousands of spectators gathered to witness the spectacular display, which combined traditional marching parades with modern aerial manoeuvres. The crowd included members of the Cabinet, prominent political figures, and distinguished domestic and foreign diplomats. Among the notable attendees was Prime Minister Rahman’s daughter, Zaima Rahman, who joined the celebrations alongside invited guests from various sectors.
The parade featured a rich variety of formations, showcasing the discipline, skill, and cultural heritage of the nation’s armed forces. The highlight of the event was the aerial flypast, which mesmerised attendees as fighter jets and aerobatic teams performed coordinated manoeuvres above the square. The display included precision formations, looping aerobatics, and flag-bearing aircraft, symbolising national unity and pride.
A breakdown of the key components of the National Day celebrations is presented below:
| Event Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Parade Location | National Parade Square, Old City Airport |
| Date & Time | 26 March, starting 10:00 a.m. |
| Chief Guests | President Mohammad Shahabuddin, Prime Minister Tarek Rahman |
| Distinguished Attendees | Cabinet members, political leaders, domestic & foreign diplomats |
| Spectator Attendance | Thousands of citizens from across the nation |
| Parade Features | Marching contingents, cultural performances, military displays |
| Flypast Highlights | Aerobatic teams, fighter jets, flag-bearing aircraft, precision formations |
The event not only celebrated the country’s historic journey to independence but also demonstrated its ongoing commitment to national defence and public engagement. Spectators expressed admiration for the seamless coordination of ground and aerial displays, praising the event as a resounding success and a fitting tribute to the nation’s enduring spirit.
Concluding the day’s proceedings, organisers noted that such celebrations serve both to honour past sacrifices and to inspire future generations, reinforcing the values of unity, pride, and patriotism across the nation.