Bangladesh is set to observe Armed Forces Day tomorrow, November 21, 2025, with various programs marking the combined operations of the Army, Navy, and Air Force during the 1971 Liberation War.
The day is celebrated on November 21st, commemorating the establishment of the three services during the Liberation War.The programs will commence with special prayers at all mosques within cantonments, naval, and air force bases nationwide after Fajr prayers, seeking divine blessings for the nation and the armed forces.
The President (also Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces Division - AFD) and the Chief Adviser of the interim government will lead the homage by placing wreaths at Shikha Anirban (the Eternal Flame) in Dhaka Cantonment on Friday morning.
Following the dignitaries, the Chief of Army Staff, Navy Chief, and Air Force Chief will also lay wreaths on behalf of their respective forces. The three service chiefs are scheduled to pay courtesy calls on the Chief Adviser at the Department of Armed Forces Division and subsequently on the President at the Bangabhaban.
The Chief Adviser will host a reception at the Army Multipurpose Complex in Dhaka Cantonment for the family members of Bir Shreshthas and selected gallantry award-winning 1971 veterans and their families. The CA will distribute greeting cards and exchange greetings with 101 selected freedom fighters and their heirs.
A large reception, hosted by the Chief Adviser, will take place at Senakunj, Dhaka Cantonment, at 4 pm. Invitees include the Chief Justice, former Presidents/Advisers, foreign diplomats, various civil/military officials, journalists, academicians, politicians, and the heirs of martyred soldiers, including those from the 2009 BDR mutiny. Notably, coordinators of the anti-discrimination student movement and participants/injured persons from the July-August mass uprising are also invited.
Receptions will also be organized at several regional cantonments and bases, including Barisal, Cox's Bazar, Sylhet, Chattogram, Jashore, Rangpur, Khulna, Bougra, and Ghatail. Specially equipped naval ships in Dhaka, Khulna, Chandpur, Barisal, and Chittagong will be open to the public at nearby ghats/anchors from 2 pm until sunset on November 21st.
Bangladesh Television (BTV) will broadcast the event live and air the 'Special Anirban' program presented by the Armed Forces. Bangladesh Betar will broadcast the 'Special Durbar' program. Special bulletins, essays, and painting competitions will also mark the day.
