Nation pays homage to Bangabandhu

People from all walks of life are observing the National Mourning Day today with due respect and solemnity, marking the 48th death anniversary of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. 

Every year, the country observes National Mourning Day on August 15, which is also declared a public holiday.

On this day in 1975, the Father of the Nation along with most of his family members, was assassinated by a section of disgruntled and ambitious army personnel. His two daughters -- Sheikh Hasina, now prime minister, and Sheikh Rehana -- escaped the bloodbath as they were abroad.

The national flags are lowered to half-mast at all government, semi-government and autonomous bodies, educational institutions, private buildings and Bangladesh missions abroad.

The government, ruling Awami League and associated bodies, socio-cultural organisations and professional outfits have arranged various programmes to observe this day.

People from all strata of life are homage by placing wreaths at the portrait of the great leader in front of Bangabandhu Memorial Museum at Dhanmondi Road-32 in the capital.