The streets of Dhaka pulsed with emotion as Bangladesh bid farewell to Khaleda Zia, a trailblazing leader who transformed the nation's political landscape for decades.

The 80-year-old former prime minister, the first woman to lead the country, was honored with an extraordinary state funeral that drew unprecedented crowds of mourners from across the nation. Flags flew at half-mast while approximately 10,000 security personnel lined the capital's streets, creating a solemn corridor for her flag-draped coffin.

Outside the parliament building on Manik Mia Avenue, thousands gathered since early morning to pay their final respects. Retired government official Minhaz Uddin, 70, attended despite never having voted for her, reflecting the broad respect she commanded. 'I came here with my grandson, just to say goodbye to a veteran politician whose contributions will always be remembered,' he told reporters.

Zia's political journey was remarkable, having entered politics after her husband's death and rising to prominence by opposing military rule. Her pivotal moment came in 1990 when a mass uprising ousted the military regime, leading to her landslide victory and becoming prime minister in 1991 when parliamentary democracy was introduced.

Her political legacy was defined by a strong rivalry with Sheikh Hasina of the Bangladesh Awami League, a dynamic that shaped the nation's political discourse for years. The Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus's interim government responded to her passing by announcing three days of mourning and declaring Wednesday a public holiday.

Known for her calm demeanor, Zia led the Bangladesh Nationalist Party until her death, leaving an indelible mark on the country's democratic journey. Her funeral became a testament to her enduring impact, with citizens from all walks of life gathering to honor a pioneering political figure who helped shape modern Bangladesh.