DHAKA, Dec. 16 (Xinhua) -- Bangladeshi President Md Abdul Hamid on Monday took the salute from the armed forces at National Parade Grounds as the country celebrated its 49th victory day with due solemnity and rich tributes paid to the martyrs of the Liberation War of 1971.

The victory day parade began at about 10:00 a.m. local time here.

A contingent of freedom fighters, armed forces, security organizations and cabinet members showcasing their achievements joined the colorful Victory Day Parade.

The president took salute and inspected the parade as the chief guest.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was also present at the parade.

Earlier in the day the victory day's programs commenced with a 31-gun salute followed by rich tributes of Hamid and Hasina at National Mausoleum in Savar on the outskirts of capital Dhaka in the early hours.

The national flag is hoisted atop all government and private buildings while the government and semi-government buildings and other public places illuminated and roads and islands decorated with flags and festoons in Dhaka and elsewhere in the country.

Bangladesh was born as an independent country on this day in 1971 after the Pakistani occupation forces surrendered.

Imbued with the spirit of independence, government, political, social and cultural organizations drew up elaborate programs, including discussions, rallies, processions, dramas and Jatra (folk theater), photo exhibitions, painting competitions and cultural events to celebrate the victory of the nine-month war.

Special prayers are being offered in mosques, temples, pagodas and other places of worship for the departed souls and country's peace, progress and prosperity.

Newspapers have published special supplements marking the day while televisions and radio stations aired special programmes.