'Concert for Bangladesh' was held on this day in 1971

Today is August 1. On this day in 1971, one of the most talked-about humanitarian concerts in history, 'The Concert for Bangladesh', was held at Madison Square Garden in New York, USA. Organised by legendary sitarist Pandit Ravi Shankar and former Beatle George Harrison to support the nearly 10 million refugees who had taken shelter in India during Bangladesh's Liberation War, the concert played a vital role in drawing global attention to the cause.

In 1971, as the Pakistani forces unleashed genocide, arson, torture and crimes against humanity, millions of people fled the country and sought refuge in India. Responding to Ravi Shankar's appeal to address the food, medical and shelter crises of the refugees, George Harrison organised the concert in just five weeks.

The concert at Madison Square Garden featured performances by George Harrison, Ringo Starr, Bob Dylan, Eric Clapton, Billy Preston, Leon Russell, Joan Baez and other renowned artists from around the world. The event opened with a performance of 'Bangla Dhun' by Pandit Ravi Shankar, Ustad Ali Akbar Khan and Ustad Alla Rakha Khan.

Read more: George Harrison: The unsung hero of Bangladesh's Liberation War

Bob Dylan was one of the highlights, making a rare stage appearance after a long hiatus and performing several songs. George Harrison performed his specially written song 'Bangladesh', bringing the plight of the refugees to the world's attention.

The concert raised approximately $243,418.51, which was donated through UNICEF to assist the refugees of Bangladesh. A live album and documentary of the concert were later released, receiving widespread acclaim globally.

According to analysts, 'The Concert for Bangladesh' was not merely a fundraising event; it was a historic cultural initiative that helped build world opinion in favour of Bangladesh's Liberation War. Through this event, the reality of the country's struggle for independence, the genocide and the humanitarian catastrophe of the refugees reached millions across the globe.

In the history of the Liberation War, 'The Concert for Bangladesh' remains a unique symbol of international solidarity, humanity and cultural diplomacy.