Dhaka: The 136th birth anniversary of Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhasani, a great national leader, will be observed on Monday with due respect.

Born in 1880 at village Dhanpara in Sirajganj, Bhasani dedicated his life to establishing the rights of the oppressed and downtrodden.

Different political parties and socio-cultural organisations in Dhaka and elsewhere in the country have taken various programmes to observe the day in a befitting manner.

On the occasion, recitations from the holy Quran and prayer sessions will be arranged by his followers at his graveside at Shantosh, Tangail.

Besides, Maulana Bhasani University of Science and Technology (MBUST) and the Bhasani Foundation and some other organisations will hold various programmes at Santosh, remembering his struggle for the rights of the down trodden and against exploitation, imperialism and feudalism.

Wreaths will also be laid at his grave at Santosh paying tributes to the late national leader.

Popularly known as 'Majlum Jananeta' (leader of the downtrodden), Bhasani was popular for his fight against imperialism and oppression by Pakistani rulers.

He had led the historic Farakka March in 1976 to ensure Bangladesh's just rights over the share of the Ganges River waters.

Bhasani was the founder and president of the Pakistan Awami Muslim League which later became Awami League (AL). He also formed a progressive political organisation called National Awami Party (NAP).

His lifelong struggle for a just and exploitation-free society earned him a special place in people's hearts. He was also one of the organisers of the 1971 Liberation War of Bangladesh.

BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia issued a message paying home tributes to the memory of the late great leader on the occasion.

She said Bhasani had struggled throughout his life for establishing the rights of the oppressed people. “His string and courageous role will ever encourage us to build a stronger and self-defendant nation and society.”

“No obstacle can block our way to reach the desired goal if we follow the path he (Bhashani) showed us,” Khaleda added.