President M Abdul Hamid and his wife Rashida Khanam today (Mar 26) hosted a reception at Bangabhaban marking the country's 53rd Independence and National Day.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina joined the reception on the lawn of the Bangabhaban at about 5pm.

Besides, President-elect Md Sahabuddin, his wife Dr Rebecca Sultana, Speaker Dr Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury and Chief Justice Hasan Foez Siddique attended the reception programme.

As many as 2500 guests were invited in the programme of the Independence and National Day reception after a long gap of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Of the invitees, cabinet members, advisers, state ministers, ambassadors and high commissioners of different countries, Supreme Court judges, chiefs of the three services, members of parliament, senior political leaders, academics, business community leaders, artistes, valiant Freedom Fighters and family members of Birshreshtha gallantry award recipients and distinguished citizens attended the reception.

Newspaper editors and journalist leaders also attended the gathering alongside top civil and military officials.

On the occasion, President Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina cut a cake. They exchanged greetings with the injured freedom fighters and other dignitaries and guests at the function.

Later, the reception was followed by an iftar party.

Prior to it, a special munajat was offered seeking divine blessings for continued peace, progress and prosperity of the country.

Pesh Imam of Bangabhaban Jame Mosque Maulana M Saiful Kabir conducted the munajat.

The day is very auspicious and precious to the Bangalee nation.

BDST: 2055 HRS, MAR 26, 2023
MN