Bangladesh Sets Historic Skydiving Record on 54th Victory Day Anniversary

Bangladesh marked the 54th anniversary of Victory Day with a historic and symbolic achievement as 54 paratroopers leapt from the sky carrying the national flag, aiming to set a unique world record. The free-fall jump, conducted in formation, is expected to be recognized by Guinness World Records as the highest number of parachutists performing a free-fall jump while carrying national flags.

The special operation was carried out by “Team Bangladesh” at the old Tejgaon Airport in Dhaka as part of Victory Day celebrations commemorating Bangladesh’s triumph in the 1971 Liberation War.

Among the participants was Ashik Chowdhury, Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA). He took part in the historic jump wearing a specially designed helmet featuring the image of Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of Inqilab Mancha and a potential independent candidate for the Dhaka-8 constituency, who was recently shot and seriously injured in a criminal attack.

According to a statement posted on Sunday (December 14) on the official Facebook page of the Chief Adviser’s Office, Ashik Chowdhury dedicated his jump to the recovery of Sharif Osman Hadi. The post also called upon citizens to pray for Hadi’s speedy recovery during this moment of national celebration.

The event was organized to commemorate 54 years of victory in the Liberation War and was witnessed by Chief Adviser of the Government of Bangladesh, Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus, as the chief guest.

A large number of spectators gathered at the old Tejgaon Airport to witness the air show. Long queues were seen at the entrance from the Agargaon side, with visitors entering after security screening. Members of the Army, Air Force, and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) were deployed to ensure security.

Victory Day was celebrated nationwide with due respect and enthusiasm. With support from the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs, the Armed Forces organized special fly-pasts, parachute jumps, and aerobatic displays at the National Parade Square in Tejgaon, alongside musical performances and band shows.

The Armed Forces Orchestra performed at the South Plaza of the National Parliament Building in Dhaka. Limited band displays and Air Force fly-pasts were also held in several districts, including Khulna, Bagerhat, Kushtia, Natore, Bogura, Chattogram and Foujdarhat, Cox’s Bazar, and Matarbari.

In total, 54 paratroopers—comprising BIDA Chairman Chowdhury Ashikur Rahman and 53 members of the Armed Forces—successfully completed the free-fall jump while carrying the national flag. The achievement highlights Bangladesh’s operational capability and professionalism and is expected to inspire national pride at home and abroad.

The event was attended by the Chief Justice of Bangladesh, members of the Advisory Council, foreign diplomats stationed in Bangladesh, chiefs of the Armed Forces, senior government officials, descendants of Bir Sreshtho war heroes, students, BNCC cadets, and other distinguished guests. The program was open to the general public.

As part of Victory Day celebrations, Bangladesh Navy ships were also opened to the public from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm at various BIWTC terminals, including Chattogram, Khulna, Mongla, Payra Port, Sadarghat in Dhaka, Pagla (Narayanganj), and Barishal. Military museums and other service museums across the country were also made accessible to visitors free of charge.

The landmark event reinforced national pride, revived the spirit of the Liberation War, and showcased Bangladesh’s capabilities on an international stage.