Dhaka: BRAC University hosted “Bijoy Utshob 2025” (victory celebration) with a comprehensive program combining poetry recitations, traditional dances and songs on the campus in Merul Badda of Dhaka today (Wednesday, 17 December 2025) marking the nation’s 54th Victory Day.
Members of Chhayanaut, an organization devoted to the practice and preservation of the country’s cultural heritage, and BRAC University Cultural Club sequenced the program flow to narrate Bangladesh’s struggle for independence.
It showed how Bangalees started to rise up against deprivation, oppression, and discrimination by West Pakistan over the decades, starting from the Language Movement in 1947 and culminating in the Liberation War in 1971.
In his welcome address, Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Arshad Mahmud Chowdhury said history should not be limited to textbooks, rather it should be presented to the youth in a way such that it “turns into a living experience”.
He further said cultural practices and relevant education are essential for an understanding of the significance of the struggle and victory. He called on students to know more about the country’s history and aim to become responsible human beings.
There should be careful consideration such that debates over the number of Liberation War martyrs do not overshadow their sacrifices and trivialize the crimes of genocide perpetrators, said Dr Sarwar Ali, president of Chhayanaut’s Executive Council, as the special guest.
He spoke about being mindful so that such differing opinions do not go on to distort history.
He also highlighted the role of Bangla songs in various struggles of the people, including the Liberation War.
Dr Sarwar urged all to alleviate the instability and intolerance prevailing in society at present through the practice of culture.
Sharmind Neelotpol, adviser of the BRAC University Cultural Club and a professor of the School of Pharmacy, also spoke at the event.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Syed Ferhat Anwar, Registrar Dr. David Dowland, Lady Syeda Sarwat Abed, founder and adviser of the BRAC Institute of Languages, and Khairul Basher, director of the Office of Communications, were present alongside teachers, students and members of Chhayanaut.
The program was broadcast live on Channel I and ended with the rendition of the Bangladesh national anthem.
