The address lasted about 19 minutes and concluded with, “our struggle, this time, is a struggle for our freedom. Our struggle, this time, is a struggle for our independence. Joy Bangla”.

International media had descended upon East Pakistan for the speech amidst speculation that Bangabandhu would make a unilateral declaration of independence from Pakistan. However, keeping in mind the failures of Rhodesia’s Unilateral Declaration of Independence and of the Biafra struggle in Nigeria, he did not make a direct declaration. Nevertheless, the speech was effective in giving Bengalis a clear goal of independence. The speech changed the course of the country’s history, inspiring people to prepare for the Liberation War.

As soon as the Bangalis were attacked, Bangabandhu formally proclaimed the independence of Bangladesh. Marking the historic day on March 7, 2021, President Abdul Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina issued separate messages recalling with gratitude the courageous and farsighted leadership of Bangabandhu in materializing the nation’s journey to freedom through his speech.