In pictures: Bangladesh Independence Day

Bangladeshis have celebrated the 31st anniversary of the declaration of independence from Pakistan in 1971. In recent years, Bangladesh's two main political parties have bickered over the roles their leaders played in the war of independence, but Tuesday was a day for all Bangladeshis to celebrate.

Bengali music and literature are at the heart of Bangladesh's national identity

This is one day when many Bangladeshi women go out on their own

Given the law and order situation, just being able to relax is a welcome break

Independence day is a holiday and families have a day out

Impromptu streetside fairs spring up

Stalls selling local products are particularly popular.

The country can forget its troubles and let the children play.