Dhaka, March 18 -- The celebrations lasting 265 days, the same length as the 1971 war of independence, are being coordinated by Tower Hamlets Council, the organisers said in a statement.

The council is working with Bangladeshi artists, the National Portrait Gallery, the Council's Local History Library & Archives, and residents for the celebrations.

John Biggs, mayor of Tower Hamlets, said, "Here in Tower Hamlets, our community is strong. Diversity is one of our greatest strengths and we are proud of the role that the Bangladeshi community plays in making our borough such a vibrant and exciting place. We can look forward to celebrating the best of Bangladeshi culture throughout 2021."

The nine-month celebrations include the 'Bangladesh ...