COLOMBO: Bangladesh High Commission in Sri Lanka observed the 47th Martyrdom anniversary of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and National Mourning Day with due solemnity. High Commissioner Tareq Md Ariful Islam commenced the day-long observance by the ceremonial hoisting of national flag at half-mast and by placing floral wreath at the portrait of the Father of the Nation.
A special prayer was offered for the Father of the Nation and his martyred family members and for continuous peace and prosperity of Bangladesh under the able leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The messages of high dignitaries of Bangladesh given on this occasion were read out.
In the evening, a meeting of remembrance was held at the High Commission with participation of some dignitaries from Sri Lanka, community members of Bangladesh and staff members of the High Commission. It started with one minute silence as a mark of respect to all the martyrs of 15th August of 1975. Then a documentary titled “Bangabandhu – Forever in our hearts” was screened. In the open discussion, the speakers highlighted the philosophy, ideals, and different aspects of the eventful life of Bangabandhu. The speakers included the Country Director of World Food Programme (WFP) Abdur Rahim Siddique, former Sri Lankan High Commissioner to Bangladesh Crisanthe De Silva, Director General of SACEP Dr. Masumur Rahman and Sayuri Jayawardene
High Commissioner Tareq Md Ariful Islam in his concluding remarks paid deep homage to the Father of the Nation and recalled his great contribution to Bangalee’s every struggle for emancipation, liberation war, and independence of Bangladesh. He mentioned that Bangabandhu’s worldview is equally relevant today which has earned him recognition as global leader. Highlighting the significance of the National Mourning Day, he said that on 15th August, the Bengali nation may have lost Mujib but following his footsteps his able daughter Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is leading Bangladesh in realizing the “Golden Bengal” as envisioned by Bangabandhu. If Bangabandhu’s dream can be realized by fulfilling our own responsibilities that would be the best tribute to the Father of the Nation, he added.
In addition to the above events, the Embassy also organized a special prayer and arranged improved diet for orphans at a Muslim Orphanage in Colombo. Besides, in memory of Bangabandhu, the High Commission in collaboration with Sri Lanka Scouts organized ‘Community Kitchen’ at different districts of Sri Lanka.
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