On December 16, 2024, the heart of Dhaka was alive with an unprecedented sense of unity, pride, and celebration as people from all corners of the city gathered for an extraordinary commemoration of Bangladesh’s Victory Day.

Manik Mia Avenue transformed into a vibrant tapestry of voices, colors, and energy, drawing a diverse crowd in a remarkable display of national spirit.

The occasion was marked by a special concert organized by Shobar Age Bangladesh (Bangladesh First), a new socio-cultural platform that quickly made its presence felt with a mission to revitalize local culture and galvanize the nation's youth.

Launched under the auspices of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), the platform is more than just a cultural initiative; it represents a bridge between Bangladesh’s storied past and its dynamic future.

Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Annie, the BNP joint secretary general and convener of Shobar Age Bangladesh, articulated its core vision: "We aim to be the voice of our culture, heritage, and emotions. Our goal is to foster an environment where young people, students, and the wider nation take pride in their roots, celebrating our independence and cultural legacy without the shadow of outside influence."

The event, steeped in symbolism, marked the beginning of what many see as a cultural renaissance, with the BNP positioning itself as the champion of national unity through a shared identity—one rooted in pride, resilience, and inclusivity.

It was not just a political statement but a testament to the party’s commitment to fostering a Bangladesh where cultural and religious divisions give way to collective harmony.

This celebration also embodied Tarique Rahman’s broader vision of an inclusive Bangladesh, one where all people, regardless of their social or cultural backgrounds, can come together to embrace their shared history and build a future of mutual respect and unity.

An unparalleled gathering of diversity and unity

The Shobar Age Bangladesh concert was nothing short of a cultural phenomenon, drawing hundreds of thousands of people from every corner of Bangladesh.

The crowd was a living testament to the country's rich diversity—students and senior citizens, laborers and professionals, families and groups of friends, all converging to celebrate their shared identity.

This was far more than just a concert; it was a collective celebration of unity, where people of all classes, castes, genders, and religions stood together, rejoicing in their common heritage.

As the sun rose over Dhaka on Victory Day, the festive energy was palpable. Despite the winter chill, thousands flocked to Manik Mia Avenue, eager to be part of this historic moment.

Some arrived by metro, others by rickshaw or on foot, creating a vibrant mosaic of attendees. By midday, the avenue had transformed into a sea of people, many waving the national flag with pride, their faces alight with anticipation.

The event kicked off at 1:30 PM and continued long into the night, turning the street into a dynamic hub of music, dance, and celebration.

The massive turnout underscored the power of cultural unity. It was a profound sight—people from all walks of life, united in song and spirit, celebrating the same victory and sharing a collective sense of purpose.

In keeping with its commitment to honoring local culture, Shobar Age Bangladesh ensured that the event featured only Bangladeshi talent.

The stage was set against the iconic backdrop of the Jatiya Sangsad building, adding to the grandeur of the occasion.

The opening performance by Ethun Babu and Moushumi Chowdhury, a stirring protest song that highlighted the struggles of the Bangladeshi people under past regimes, set the tone for the day. It was a poignant reminder of the nation’s resilience, resonating deeply with the audience.

As the day unfolded, an array of celebrated artists took to the stage, each contributing to the electric atmosphere. Pritam Hasan’s dynamic renditions of "Khoka" and "Uradhura" had the crowd singing along in unison, while Kanak Chapa’s soulful performances of "Sagarika" and "I Am Alive in Your Love" captivated listeners.

Baby Naznin’s emotional rendition of "Amader Bangladesh" brought many to tears, and the timeless voices of Syed Abdul Hadi and Khurshid Alam added a nostalgic touch with their classic songs.

The evening reached a thrilling peak with electrifying performances by iconic bands like Souls, Avoid Rafa, and Nagar Baul. At 9:30 PM, James—the undisputed "Guru" of Bangladeshi music—took to the stage, commanding the audience’s attention with his magnetic presence.

His two-hour set, brimming with unforgettable hits, served as the perfect finale to a day filled with passion, pride, and an unbreakable sense of cultural unity.

A vision of unity and harmony

The Shobar Age Bangladesh concert was more than just a musical event; it was a living testament to the BNP’s inclusive political ideals and Tarique Rahman’s vision of a harmonious, united Bangladesh.

 By bringing together people of all faiths and backgrounds, the concert embodied the communal harmony that lies at the heart of the nation’s identity.

Throughout the day, the atmosphere was charged with peace and solidarity. Muslims, Hindus, Christians, and Buddhists stood side by side, singing, dancing, and celebrating together.

The sight of Jubo Dal activists waving the national flag alongside everyday citizens was a powerful symbol of unity.

The event demonstrated that, beyond religious or social identities, the people of Bangladesh are united by a deep love for their country and its rich cultural heritage.

Tarique Rahman’s commitment to promoting local culture and heritage was evident in every facet of the concert.

From the selection of performers to the event’s overarching theme, the focus was squarely on celebrating what makes Bangladesh unique.

It served as a vivid reminder that the country’s strength is rooted in its diversity, and that its people are bound together by a shared history, values, and a collective spirit.

This cultural movement aligns with the BNP’s broader vision of an inclusive, progressive Bangladesh. By uniting individuals from all walks of life under one roof, the event delivered a clear message: the nation’s identity is defined not by divisions but by its shared history, values, and collective aspirations.

The success of the concert was visible in the faces of the attendees—joyful, enthusiastic, and full of pride. Despite the logistical challenges of organizing such a large-scale event, including heavy traffic and the bustle of a crowded city, the spirit of the people remained unshaken.

As the concert came to a close, many left in groups, humming their favorite songs, carrying with them the memories of an unforgettable day.

Ultimately, the event transformed Victory Day into a truly inclusive celebration, where every person felt a sense of belonging and pride. It was a poignant reminder that the victories of the past can inspire unity and progress in the future.

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Writer- H. M. Nazmul Alam is an Eminent Academic, Journalist, and Political Analyst.