On the eve of Vijay Diwas, President Droupadi Murmu attended the ‘At-Home’ reception at the Army House in New Delhi. The event, held on Sunday, marked the occasion of India’s victory over Pakistan in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War.
Vijay Diwas, celebrated annually on December 16, honors India’s triumph in the 13-day war that led to Pakistan’s surrender in Dhaka. This victory resulted in the creation of Bangladesh, formerly known as East Pakistan. The President’s participation in the reception highlighted the significance of the day for the nation, which remembers the sacrifices made by the soldiers and the subsequent liberation of Bangladesh.
A post on the President’s official Twitter account confirmed her attendance, stating, “President Droupadi Murmu attended ‘At Home’ reception at Army House on the eve of ‘Vijay Diwas’.”
Dignitaries Join The Commemoration
The event was graced by several prominent figures, including Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. The reception was hosted by Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi. Together, they celebrated the monumental achievement and honored the soldiers who contributed to India’s victory.
In addition to the dignitaries, President Murmu took the opportunity to engage with numerous guests at the event, which included veterans, diplomats, sportspersons, and other distinguished individuals. The Indian Army’s social media account highlighted the interactions between these guests, emphasizing the sense of unity and gratitude.
Honoring Heroes And Showcasing Talent
The reception provided a unique opportunity for dignitaries to connect with veterans and their families, paying tribute to their sacrifices. The event paid special attention to VeerNaris, the widows of fallen soldiers, honoring their bravery and resilience. The event also featured a cultural display by the tribal community, showcasing their talent and contribution to the nation’s diverse heritage.
“The reception provided an opportunity to the President, Vice-President, and Raksha Mantri to interact with #Veterans, #Veernaris, Diplomatic fraternity, Sportspersons, eminent personalities, Asha School Children, and achievers from different walks of life,” an Indian Army post on X (formerly Twitter) read.
Reflecting On National Sacrifice
Earlier in the week, President Murmu also paid tribute to the heroes who sacrificed their lives during the 2001 Parliament attack. On December 13, she expressed the nation’s gratitude and solidarity in the fight against terrorism. “I pay my humble tribute to the bravehearts who sacrificed their lives defending our Parliament on this day in 2001. Their courage and selfless service continue to inspire us,” she wrote on X.
A Day Of Remembrance
Fifty-three years ago, on December 16, 1971, the largest military surrender since World War II took place when 93,000 Pakistani soldiers laid down their arms before Indian forces. This surrender marked the liberation of Bangladesh and remains a defining moment in Indian history.
As India reflects on its past, events like the ‘At-Home’ reception offer a chance to honor those who made this victory possible, while also uniting the nation in celebration of its rich history and the values that continue to shape its future.
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