Today Is the 41st Independence Day of Bangladesh

The above image says: "Independence '71, 26th March"

Artwork (Toronto: March 25, 2012) © Joachim Romeo D'Costa

Today is the 41st Independence Day of Bangladesh. This day reminds its citizens how much sacrifice was made to make this country independent in 1971. 

This freedom also bestowed upon us a tremendous burden of responsibility. A responsibility encompassing all its citizens -- irrespective of ethnicity, religion and education -- to treat each other fairly and equally as much as possible in every sphere of life. 

We need to go back to the past and deeply look at different aspects of the independence movement that culminated in 1971 in a deadly warfare with the West Pakistani ruling junta and finally in the independence of Bangladesh.

This study and re-study will open our minds further and make us more introspective and mindful of our responsibilities. Then and then only will we be able to strive to take our country forward to greater peace and prosperity.