<div><span style="font-size: 1rem;"><b>March 7, a remarkable day in the history of the nation’s long arduous freedom struggle, is being observed on Thursday across the country with elaborate programmes.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>In 2017, United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) recognised the historic March 7 speech of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman as a world documentary heritage.</div><div><br></div><div>On this day in 1971, Bangabandhu, the undisputed leader of Bangalees, delivered an epoch-making speech before a mammoth rally at the then Racecourse Maidan (now Suhrawardy Udyan) in Dhaka city.</div><div><br></div><div>In his 19-minute extempore speech before a million freedom-loving people, Bangabandhu made a clarion call for a non-cooperation movement -- asking the nation to prepare for liberating the country from the oppressive Pakistan regime.</div><div><br></div><div>"The struggle this time is for freedom, the struggle this time is for independence, Joy Bangla," Bangabandhu declared from the massive rally.</div><div><br></div><div>During his speech, Bangabandhu said: "Since we have learnt to give blood, we'll give more blood. Insha Allah, the people of this country will be liberated...turn every house into a fortress. Face (the enemy) with whatever you have."</div><div><br></div><div>His speech worked like a magic spell, inspiring the entire nation to join the struggle for independence from the autocratic and repressive rule of the then-Pakistani junta.</div><div><br></div><div>The Cabinet on October 7, 2020 declared March 7 as a 'Historic Day' instead of 'National Historic Day' -- to observe the day nationally and internationally, commemorating the immortal speech of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.</div><div><br></div><div>Awami League and different socio-political and cultural organisations have chalked out elaborate programmes on the occasion.</div><div><br></div><div>Bangladesh Betar and Bangladesh Television as well as private television channels and radio stations are airing special programmes while national dailies published special supplements marking the day.</div><div><br></div><div>National and Awami League party flags have been hoisted marking the day at Bangabandhu Bhaban and the party office this morning.</div><div><br></div><div>Meanwhile, President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina issued separate messages. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>