DHAKA, Dec. 16 (Xinhua) -- With due solemnity and rich tributes paid to the martyrs of the Liberation War of 1971, Bangladesh Sunday celebrated its 48th victory day.

On Dec. 16, 1971, the then East Pakistan under the leadership of founding father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, won its emancipation and emerged as an independent state, Bangladesh.

As always the day's programs commenced with a 31-gun salute followed by rich tributes of President Abdul Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at National Mausoleum in Savar on the outskirts of capital Dhaka in the early hours.

The national flag is hoisted atop all government and private buildings while the government and semi-government buildings and other public places illuminated and roads and islands decorated with flags and festoons in Dhaka and elsewhere in the country.

Imbued with the spirit of independence, government, political, social and cultural organizations drew up elaborate programs, including discussions, rallies, processions, dramas and Jatra (folk theater), photo exhibitions, painting competitions and cultural events to celebrate the victory of the nine-month war.

However, there was no parade at the National Parade Ground in Dhaka this year due to the national elections slated for Dec. 30.

The day is a public holiday in Bangladesh.

Special prayers are being offered in mosques, temples, pagodas and other places of worship for the departed souls and country's peace, progress and prosperity.

Newspapers have published special supplements marking the day while televisions and radio stations aired special programmes. Enditem

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