India and Bangladesh on Monday marked the 53rd anniversary of Vijay Diwas, commemorating the decisive victory in the 1971 India-Pakistan war. The occasion, which celebrates India’s victory and the subsequent liberation of Bangladesh (then East Pakistan), is being observed through a series of joint commemorative events, including the exchange of war veterans and serving officers between the two nations.
In a gesture of camaraderie, eight Indian war veterans and two serving officers from the Indian Armed Forces have arrived in Dhaka to participate in Bangladesh’s Victory Day celebrations. Similarly, eight distinguished Muktijoddhas (freedom fighters) and two serving officers from the Bangladesh Armed Forces have arrived in Kolkata, India, to take part in the Vijay Diwas ceremonies.
Vijay Diwas, celebrated every year on December 16, honors India’s victory in the 13-day war, which culminated in the surrender of Pakistan’s Eastern Command in Dhaka, paving the way for the creation of Bangladesh.
On the eve of Vijay Diwas, President Droupadi Murmu attended a special ‘At-Home’ reception at Army House, hosted by Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan also attended the reception, where they interacted with veterans, diplomats, Asha school children, and other distinguished guests.
During the event, the dignitaries had the opportunity to interact with Veernaris (widows of fallen soldiers) and members of the tribal community, offering heartfelt tributes and acknowledging their sacrifices. The reception also included an exhibition of tribal talent, underscoring the nation’s gratitude to the armed forces and other contributors to the country’s security.
President Murmu, PM Modi pay tribute
In her tribute to the soldiers who displayed “indomitable courage” during the 1971 war, President Droupadi Murmu expressed that their “ultimate sacrifice” continues to inspire every Indian. In a post on X, she wrote: “On Vijay Diwas, I pay homage to our valiant soldiers who displayed indomitable courage during the 1971 war, securing victory for India. A grateful nation remembers the ultimate sacrifice of our brave hearts whose stories inspire every Indian and shall remain a source of national pride.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also honored the soldiers on this momentous day. In a post on X, he emphasized the courage and sacrifices of the soldiers who played a key role in India’s historic victory in 1971. “Today, on Vijay Diwas, we honour the courage and sacrifices of the brave soldiers who contributed to India’s historic victory in 1971. Their selfless dedication and unwavering resolve safeguarded our nation and brought glory to us. This day is a tribute to their extraordinary valour and their unshakable spirit. Their sacrifices will forever inspire generations and remain deeply embedded in our nation’s history,” PM Modi said.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also paid tribute to the soldiers on Vijay Diwas. In his message, he reaffirmed that the nation will never forget the sacrifices of the Indian Armed Forces. “Today, on the special occasion of Vijay Diwas, the nation salutes the bravery and sacrifice of India’s armed forces. Their unwavering courage and patriotism ensured that our country remained safe. India will never forget their sacrifice and service,” Singh wrote on X.
According to reports, the 1971 war, which lasted for 13 days, resulted in the death of around 3,900 Indian soldiers, with 9,851 others injured. The victory marked a pivotal moment in both Indian and Bangladeshi history, with Bangladesh achieving independence and the Indo-Pakistani conflict reaching a decisive conclusion.
(With ANI inputs)