16 December 1971

On December 16, 1971, Pakistan's eastern region, then known as East Pakistan, fought a brutal war of independence against West Pakistan. After months of conflict and widespread atrocities, the eastern region successfully proclaimed itself as the independent nation of Bangladesh. This day marked the surrender of Pakistani military forces in Dhaka, the capital of East Pakistan, leading to the birth of Bangladesh. The event was a significant moment in South Asian history, representing the resolution of a long-standing struggle for self-determination, sovereignty, and recognition for the Bengali people.