The Bangladeshi and the wider community in Bradford and Keighley came together for a special flag-raising ceremony in front of Centenary Square, Bradford City Hall, to mark the 55th Independence Day of Bangladesh.
The event, held on Wednesday, 26 March, was a moment of pride and reflection for attendees, celebrating the rich history, resilience and achievements of Bangladesh and its people.
The ceremony was graced by the Lord Mayor of Bradford, Cllr Beverly Mullaney, along with dignitaries, councillors and community leaders, who joined in paying tribute to Bangladesh’s journey to independence. The flag-raising was preceded by a formal reception
in the Mayor’s Civic Room, where guests gathered to reflect on the significance of the occasion and strengthen community ties.
During the ceremony, speakers expressed their deep pride in the accomplishments of British Bangladeshis and acknowledged the invaluable support of the British people during Bangladesh’s liberation struggle. They highlighted the vital role that community cohesion continues to play as a unifying force within the Bradford district, fostering inclusivity, shared values, and cultural pride.
A poignant moment of the event was the observance of a one-minute silence in memory of those who sacrificed their lives for Bangladesh’s independence, ensuring that their legacy and contributions are never forgotten.
The event was jointly organised by Eden Community Association CIC, ISSE Ltd, and Councillor Fulzar Ahmed, who worked together to create a meaningful and well-attended commemoration.
Cllr Ashraf Miah, Community Development Director at Eden Community Association, emphasised the importance of the day, stating: “Bangladesh Independence Day is a time for our community to come together, honour our heritage, and celebrate the remarkable achievements of our home nation. It is an opportunity to reflect on our history while also looking ahead to a future built on unity, progress, and cultural pride.”
Humayun Islam BEM BCAc, Director of ISSE said “Today’s ceremony is not only a tribute to Bangladesh’s independence, but also a celebration of our community’s strength, resilience, and unity here in Bradford. It is deeply moving to see so many people – young and old – come together to honour our shared history and reaffirm our commitment to building a future grounded in respect, diversity and togetherness. Moments like this remind us of the importance of remembering our roots while continuing to contribute positively to the society we are proud to be part of.”
The ceremony served as a powerful reminder of the enduring bonds between the Bangladeshi community and the wider Bradford district, reinforcing the values of unity, remembrance and shared progress.
