Dhaka, Dec 16 (IANS): Bangladesh on Sunday celebrated the 47th Victory Day commemorating the day when Pakistan surrendered and Bangladesh emerged as a new country, ending the decades-long rule of West Pakistan.

On December 16, 1971, the then East Pakistan under the leadership of founding father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, won its emancipation and emerged as an independent state, Bangladesh, reports Xinhua news agency.

The day's programmes commenced with a 31-gun salute followed by tributes by President Abdul Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at National Mausoleum in Savar on the outskirts of capital Dhaka.

The national flag was hoisted atop all government and private buildings while other public places were illuminated and roads decorated with flags and festoons across the country.

However, there was no parade in Dhaka this year due to the national elections slated for December 30.

The day is a public holiday in Bangladesh.

Special prayers were being offered in mosques, temples, pagodas and other places of worship.