A day-long cultural programme titled "July Revival Programmes-2025" was held today at the capital's Manik Mia Avenue. Photo: PID

DHAKA, Aug 5, 2025 (BSS) - A day-long cultural programme titled "July Revival Programmes-2025" was held today at the capital's Manik Mia Avenue, marking the first anniversary of the historic July Uprising.

The commemorative event drew a large gathering of students, artists, and ordinary citizens, reflecting the spirit of resistance, unity, and democratic aspirations that characterized the 2024 movement.

The main programme commenced at 12 noon with a performance by the renowned Islamic cultural troupe Saimum Shilpi Gosthi, who opened with the patriotic song "Ei Desh Amar Bangladesh, Amar Bhalobasha", written by Ustad Tofazzel Hossain. 

This was followed by a musical segment from Kolarob Shilpi Gosthi, further enriching the cultural proceedings.

At 1:20 pm, a video message on behalf of Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus was aired, paying tribute to the martyrs and participants of the movement and reiterating the call for justice and equality.

Singers Lutfor Rahman and Nahid Hasan then performed the commemorative track "36 July", composed to honour the events and sacrifices of the previous year.

Following a short prayer break, popular singer Tashfee took the stage at 1:55 pm with an energetic performance that captivated the audience.

One of the programme's highlights came at 2:25 pm during a symbolic segment titled "Fascist's Fleeing Moment", representing the fall of the previous regime. 

As part of the performance, helicopter-shaped balloons were released into the sky, prompting spirited chants from the crowd including "Polaise Re Polaise, Sheikh Hasina Polaise!" and "Kothai Kothai Bangla Char, Bangla Ki Tor Bap-Dadar?", capturing the defiant tone that underscored last year's uprising.

The afternoon session featured a series of contemporary musical performances. Chittagong Hip Hop Hood opened the segment at 2:30 pm, followed by solo performances by hip-hop artist Shezan and the popular Shunno Band. 

At 3:28 pm, Shunno performed their acclaimed song "Shono Mohajon", receiving an enthusiastic response from the audience.

Musicians Ethun Babu and Moushumi also performed, further energizing the crowd as the programme continued into the late afternoon.

After Asar prayers, the long-awaited "July Declaration" was announced by the Chief Adviser, drawing close attention from the audience and setting the tone for future national reforms.

The event served both as a solemn tribute to the martyrs of the student-led uprising and a celebration of the continuing struggle for justice, equality and democratic transformation.

The day's programmes are set to continue into the evening, with additional performances by other musical bands. 

A drone light show titled "Do You Miss Me" has been scheduled as the closing segment of the event.