On December 16, 1971, India won a decisive victory over Pakistan. Since then, this day has been celebrated as Vijay Diwas to honor the bravery and sacrifices of India’s defense force.

The 1971 war was a pivotal moment in history, not only liberating Bangladesh, but also crushing Pakistan militarily. The signing of the “Instrument of Surrender” by Major General Amir Abdullah Khan Niazi to the Indian Army and Bangladesh’s Mukti Bahini is an iconic image that underscores India’s leadership in the region. Major General Niazi surrendered with over 93,000 troops before Lt General Jagjit Singh Aurora, then General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of India’s Eastern Command.

This was the largest military surrender since World War II. This day is both a significant historical event and a day of remembrance for the soldiers who died in the war.