Suhrawardy Udyan — formerly the Ramna Racecourse — is one of the most historically significant open grounds in Bangladesh. The historic address of 7 March 1971 was delivered here, and on 16 December the same year the Pakistani forces formally surrendered on this ground.
Former name
Ramna Racecourse
Historic address
7 March 1971
Surrender
16 December 1971
Eternal Flame
1996
In Mughal times the area was known as Bagh-e-Badshahi; under British rule it became an enclosed racecourse called Ramna Green. For a long period it was one of the largest open grounds in Dhaka.
After 1975 the ground was converted into a green park with walkways; part of it now has a children’s recreation area.
On 7 March 1971, before a vast gathering at the Ramna Racecourse, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman delivered the historic address regarded as equivalent to a declaration of independence.
On the same ground, on 16 December 1971, the Pakistani forces formally surrendered — the day now observed as Victory Day.
To commemorate the events tied to independence, an Eternal Flame (Shikha Chirantan) was installed here in 1996, and construction of the National Independence Tower began near the surrender site.
To the south lie the mausoleums of three national leaders, and around the ground sit Bangla Academy, the National Museum and Curzon Hall — making the park a hub of historic sites.
Information checked: 3 November 2026. Access conditions, opening hours, fares and nearby opening arrangements can change — confirm the latest details before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
The Ramna Racecourse (Racecourse Maidan).
The historic 7 March 1971 address and the formal surrender of the Pakistani forces on 16 December 1971.
A memorial marker installed in the ground in 1996 to commemorate the Liberation War.
