The article recounts the extraordinary role of Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College and Hospital during Bangladesh’s 1971 Liberation War. Despite limited resources and constant danger, doctors, students, and health workers continued treating the wounded. Led by Professor Dr. Shamsuddin Ahmed, the hospital became a refuge for victims of violence. Dr. Ahmed organized an emergency blood bank and medical squad before the conflict intensified, saving countless lives. On April 9, 1971, Pakistani forces surrounded the hospital and executed Dr. Ahmed and several colleagues, marking one of the war’s most tragic massacres.

The institution’s contribution extended beyond martyrdom. Many students joined the medical corps in India, serving in refugee camps and field hospitals, while others fought directly in Sectors 4 and 5. Staff secretly supplied medicines and surgical tools to freedom fighters, risking their lives under curfew. The hospital grounds later became a memorial site honoring those who died.

The article concludes that these sacrifices remain underrecognized nationally. It calls for proper acknowledgment of the doctors, students, and staff whose courage embodied humanity and moral strength during the war.

The historic Nidaria Mosque in Lalmonirhat, built in Mughal architectural style nearly three centuries ago, is now at risk due to neglect and structural decay. Despite being listed by the Department of Archaeology, the three-domed mosque has weakened over time without proper restoration. Locals warn that without urgent renovation and recovery of encroached land, this northern heritage site could be lost.

According to local accounts, the mosque was built in 1176 Hijri by Subedar Monsur Khan in fulfillment of a vow. The single-room structure, measuring about 42 feet by 16 feet, features three domes, four corner pillars, and a single entrance. It stands in Kishamat Nagarband Mouza of Panchagram Union, with an adjacent Eidgah, graveyard, and a madrasa established in 2019. Although about 10 acres of land were donated to the mosque, part of it is now under dispute.

Local residents and the district administration have called for immediate action to restore the mosque and resolve the land issues. Officials said necessary measures will be taken soon to preserve the site, which locals believe could become a major heritage tourism destination if properly maintained.

A new organization named 'Osman Hadi Smriti Mancha' was inaugurated on Saturday at 4 p.m. at the central Shaheed Minar in Nalchity, Jhalakathi, marking the 100th day since the martyrdom of Shahid Osman Hadi. The inauguration was conducted by his sister, Masuma Hadi. The group aims to preserve Bengali culture, continue the struggle against foreign dominance, and demand justice for Hadi’s killing.

Osman Hadi, spokesperson of the Inquilab Mancha, was known for his activism against Indian dominance. The event was attended by Masuma Hadi’s husband Amir Hossain, Sultan Talukdar, father of martyr Selim Talukdar, and other local residents. Speakers included Touhid Alam Manna, Sultan Talukdar, Sujon Khan, and Shahadat Fakir.

In her keynote, Masuma Hadi said the platform would spread Osman Hadi’s ideals and voice for freedom across the country. She criticized the lack of justice and demanded that the killers be brought back from India for maximum punishment. The program concluded with Quran recitation, Islamic songs, and prayers.

The Bangladesh High Commission in Ottawa celebrated the 2026 Independence and National Day of Bangladesh on March 26 with due dignity and festivity. The event, held on Saturday, featured a diplomatic reception attended by Canadian parliamentarians, senior officials, diplomats from various countries, and members of the Bangladeshi diaspora. Parliamentary Secretary to the Canadian Foreign Minister Robert Oliphant attended as the chief guest.

High Commissioner Md. Jashim Uddin paid tribute to the martyrs, freedom fighters, and victims of the 1971 Liberation War, emphasizing that independence is a continuous responsibility. He noted Bangladesh’s efforts over the past 55 years to strengthen democratic institutions and achieve sustainable economic growth. Chief guest Robert Oliphant praised Bangladesh’s growing economic stability, contributions to global peacekeeping, and progress in social and economic indicators.

The celebration included a ceremonial cake-cutting and a cultural performance titled “Bangladesh: Baro Mashe Tero Parbon,” showcasing the country’s seasonal and cultural heritage. Earlier in the day, the national flag was hoisted at the Bangladesh House, followed by a special prayer for the martyrs of the Liberation War.

Dhaka residents witnessed a vibrant three-day Eid-ul-Fitr festival that brought traditional celebrations back to public spaces. The citizen-led event began on March 20 with a symbolic royal procession through city streets, followed by a mehendi festival and cultural evening at Rabindra Sarobar. The festivities continued with a colorful Eid parade on Eid morning and concluded on March 22 with a kite festival at Suhrawardy Udyan.

Organizers said the initiative aimed to revive Bangladesh’s lost Eid traditions and reconnect urban life with its cultural roots. The parade featured decorated elephants, horses, musicians, and performers, while participants chanted festive and social slogans. Citizens expressed joy at rediscovering communal celebrations once confined to Old Dhaka. Organizers, including writers and activists, emphasized that such events reclaim cultural sovereignty and promote unity beyond political divides.

Encouraged by the strong public response, organizers plan to expand the festival in future years, aiming to make it an annual platform for inclusive celebration and cultural revival across Bangladesh.

Bandarban, a southeastern district of Bangladesh, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural diversity. The region’s towering hills, mist-covered peaks, and vibrant ethnic communities create a living canvas of nature and tradition. Eleven indigenous groups, including the Marma, Mro, and Tanchangya, inhabit the area, practicing traditional jhum cultivation and preserving their distinct crafts and cuisines that attract visitors seeking authentic experiences.

The district’s name, Bandarban, originates from a local legend involving monkeys forming a chain to cross a stream, giving rise to its meaning, “dam of monkeys.” Historically, the area was under the Bomang Circle, established under the 1900 Chittagong Hill Tracts Regulation, and became a full-fledged district in 1984. The century-old Bomang royal palace and the annual Raj Punnyah festival remain symbols of its enduring heritage.

Home to Bangladesh’s highest peaks, Tajindong and Keokradong, and scenic waterfalls like Nafakhum and Amiakhum, Bandarban is also rich in forest resources and agricultural produce. Its serene landscapes, spiritual sites, and communal harmony make it a distinctive meeting point of nature and culture.

Tamirul Millat Kamil Madrasa in Dhaka observed the Independence and National Day on Thursday with a series of events. The day began with the hoisting of the national flag after the Fajr prayer, followed by Quran recitation, Hamd-Naat performances, essay competitions, a discussion meeting, and a prayer session involving students and teachers.

The discussion and prayer session, held at the madrasa auditorium, was conducted by Assistant Professor Abdus Samad Azad from the English Department. Acting Principal Dr. Muhammad Khalilur Rahman Madani attended as the chief guest. He prayed for the martyrs of the Liberation War and emphasized the importance of ensuring national security, education, healthcare, and housing for all, along with strengthening the education sector.

Dr. Madani urged students to become patriotic, responsible citizens, writers, and researchers to build a just and prosperous nation. Prizes were distributed among competition winners, and the event concluded with prayers for the welfare and prosperity of the country.

Culture Minister Advocate Nitai Roy Chowdhury emphasized national unity beyond religion, ethnicity, and political differences during a religious discussion and cultural program held on Wednesday night, March 25, in Langalband, Bandar, Narayanganj. Speaking as the chief guest at the Mahashtami holy bath celebration, he said the government, under Tarique Rahman’s leadership, is working collectively to rebuild the country through teamwork since taking office.

The minister highlighted Bangladesh’s diverse cultural heritage, describing it as a source of unity and democratic beauty where differences in opinion and belief coexist. Referring to global unrest, he said Bangladesh aims to remain peaceful, tolerant, and culturally rich. He recalled Bengal’s historical prominence in knowledge and prosperity, mentioning that travelers once came here for its wealth and learning.

Chowdhury added that with proper leadership, Bangladesh can regain its lost glory and build a nation of new possibilities where all religious communities stand together. He also announced plans to further develop Langalband as part of the country’s ancient heritage.

A six-day-long Shiv Darshan and Maha Ram Navami fair has begun at the historic Ramkut pilgrimage site in Ramu upazila of Cox’s Bazar. The event, organized to celebrate the birth anniversary of Lord Ramachandra, started on Monday, March 23, at 8 p.m. and will conclude on March 28. The fair includes various religious programs such as Basanti Devi Puja, a religious assembly, a 24-hour Tarakabrahma Mahanaam Yajna, Shri Shri Ram Navami observance, and Shiv Darshan.

Cox’s Bazar-3 Member of Parliament Lutfur Rahman Kajal attended the opening ceremony as the chief guest, emphasizing the importance of maintaining communal harmony and rejecting any form of discord. He urged unity to eliminate irregularities and called for collective efforts to develop religious institutions through sacrifice. The event was also addressed by Professor Dr. Kushal Baran Chakraborty of Chittagong University, trustee Dr. Parimal Shil of the Hindu Religious Welfare Trust, and several other guests from different religious and social backgrounds.

The fair is being held under the leadership of celebration committee president Bijoy Dhar and conducted by Sushanta Pal Bachchu, with participation from local political and community leaders.

A large Eid-ul-Fitr congregation was held at the Sitakunda Government Model High School Eidgah ground in Chattogram, where thousands of worshippers gathered peacefully from early morning. The prayer ended with special supplications for national unity, communal harmony, and the welfare of the Muslim community. The event took place in a festive and spiritual atmosphere, with no untoward incidents reported due to effective local administration and security measures.

Chattogram-4 (Sitakunda) Member of Parliament Mohammad Aslam Chowdhury FCA attended as chief guest, along with local officials, political leaders, and community representatives. In his brief address, the MP said Eid teaches sacrifice, empathy, and brotherhood, and that peace and harmony can be achieved by practicing these values. He added that the government is working tirelessly to advance education and health sectors and will continue this progress. He urged the wealthy to share Eid joy with the underprivileged and called for unity in building a humane and welfare-oriented society.

He also warned those involved in irregularities in market lease activities to refrain from misconduct, cautioning that offenders may be publicly named in future Eid gatherings.

The Maldives celebrated Eid-ul-Fitr on Friday, March 20, 2026, in a festive and religious atmosphere aligned with the Arab and Middle Eastern countries. Multiple Eid congregations were held across the islands from 7 a.m. local time, with the largest gathering taking place at the Maafannu Stadium in the capital, Male. Major mosques, including Masjid al-Sultan (Grand Mosque) and Masjid al-Salman, also hosted prayers simultaneously.

Bangladeshi expatriates living in the Maldives joined the celebrations in groups at mosques such as Nurul Miskin, Ibrahim Miskin, and Hukuru Miskin, many wearing traditional attire that added color to the occasion. Bangladeshi-owned restaurants offered special traditional dishes, and expatriates spent the day with family and friends in Male and nearby Hulhumale.

The Bangladesh High Commission in the Maldives extended Eid greetings to the expatriate community, joined by leaders of the Maldives BNP and various community, business, and social organizations. The event reflected a blend of religious devotion and cultural festivity among the expatriate and local Muslim communities.

The country’s largest Eid-ul-Fitr congregation was held on Saturday morning at the Gor-e-Shaheed Central Eidgah in Dinajpur. The prayer began at 9 a.m., drawing worshippers from across Bangladesh. Authorities arranged extensive facilities, including ablution areas, parking, medical teams, drinking water, and about 150 loudspeakers. The district police implemented a three-tier security system, and the Eidgah domes and minarets were decorated with electric lighting.

The congregation was led by Maulana Matiur Rahman Qasemi, a prominent Islamic scholar and Amir of Hefazat-e-Islam’s Dinajpur district branch. Among those attending were Dinajpur Sadar Member of Parliament Syed Jahangir Alam, Deputy Commissioner Rafiqul Islam, Superintendent of Police Zedan Al Musa, and people from various political, social, and cultural organizations, along with citizens of all ages.

After the prayer, participants offered special supplications for the peace and prosperity of the nation and the global Muslim community.

Eid-ul-Fitr prayers were held across Chattogram on Saturday in a festive and spiritual atmosphere. Worshippers gathered at mosques and Eidgahs from early morning, exchanging greetings after the prayers. Special prayers were offered for the peace and prosperity of the Muslim Ummah following the congregations.

The main Eid congregation took place at the Jamiatul Falah Mosque premises under the supervision of Chattogram City Corporation, with the first prayer at 8:00 a.m. and the second at 8:45 a.m. Separate congregations were also organized at the MA Aziz Stadium under the district administration and at 90 other locations across the city. Prominent mosques, including Laldighi Shahi Jame Mosque and Chasma Eidgah Mosque, hosted large gatherings.

City Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain, several Members of Parliament, and other political figures joined the prayers at different venues. Security measures were tightened around mosques and Eidgahs to ensure safety, and special patrols were deployed throughout the city.

The 199th Eid-ul-Fitr congregation was held at the historic Sholakia Eidgah in Kishoreganj on March 21, 2026. Devotees from across Bangladesh gathered for the prayer, which began at 10 a.m. and was led by Mufti Abul Khayer Mohammad Saifullah. Approximately 600,000 worshippers attended the congregation, marking one of the largest gatherings in the country.

To ensure security, 1,100 police officers, four platoons of army personnel, five platoons of Border Guard Bangladesh, six Rapid Action Battalion teams, five platoons of Ansar, and 13 executive magistrates were deployed. Two special Eid trains operated from Mymensingh and Bhairab to facilitate travel for distant worshippers. State Minister for Textiles and Jute Shariful Alam and Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Aslam Molla, who also chairs the Eidgah Committee, performed the Eid prayers at the site.

The large-scale congregation continued the long-standing tradition of Eid prayers at Sholakia, which has become a central religious event for Muslims across Bangladesh.

Worshippers at the Baitul Mukarram National Mosque in Dhaka offered prayers for the welfare of the nation following Eid congregational prayers on March 21, 2026. The special supplication included prayers for the acceptance of Ramadan fasting and other acts of worship, as well as for the forgiveness of sins and blessings for deceased relatives. Participants were seen praying with emotion, seeking divine mercy and protection for oppressed Muslims around the world.

The mosque hosted five successive Eid congregations, scheduled at 10:00 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. for the later sessions. The third congregation was led by Islamic Foundation Deputy Director Maulana Md Zakir Hossain, the fourth by Imam Training Academy instructor Maulana Zubair Ahmed Al Azahari, and the fifth and final by Islamic Foundation Mufti Maulana Mohammad Abdullah. Assistant librarian Maulana Shahidul Islam was designated as an alternate imam.

The event reflected a collective spiritual observance marking the end of Ramadan, emphasizing unity, repentance, and prayers for peace and well-being.