Remembering the Language Martyrs: A Nation’s Homage
Early Saturday morning, the nation observed ‘Amar Ekushey’ – a poignant commemoration of the International Mother Language Day and Shaheed Dibosh. The day honours the sacrifices made during the historic Language Movement, a pivotal moment in the nation’s struggle for recognition and identity.
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman led the tributes, arriving at the Central Shaheed Minar at the stroke of midnight. At precisely 12:07 AM, he placed a wreath, marking the commencement of the solemn observances. He stood in silent reflection, a profound gesture of respect for the language heroes who gave their lives. A prayer, or munajat, was offered, seeking eternal peace for the departed souls of the language martyrs, as well as for those who sacrificed during the Liberation War and various democratic movements.
Later, accompanied by cabinet members and his advisors, the Prime Minister, on behalf of the government and the BNP, laid another wreath at the Shaheed Minar, reinforcing the nation’s gratitude. In a deeply personal act, Prime Minister Rahman, alongside his wife Zubaida Rahman and daughter Zaima Rahman, also paid homage on behalf of BNP founder Ziaur Rahman and former party chairperson Khaleda Zia.
The solemn ceremony continued with the participation of a diverse array of dignitaries. Ministers, advisors, members of parliament, the chiefs of the armed forces, senior leaders from various political parties, opposition figures, freedom fighters, foreign diplomats, and high-ranking civil and military officials all paid their respects. Following these official observances, the Central Shaheed Minar was opened to the public, allowing citizens from all walks of life to express their reverence with floral tributes.
The Prime Minister was warmly welcomed upon his arrival at the Shaheed Minar by Dhaka University Vice Chancellor Professor Niaz Ahmed Khan and other university officials.
Earlier in the day, President Mohammed Shahabuddin had also paid his respects to the martyrs of the Language Movement by laying wreaths at the Central Shaheed Minar, underscoring the national significance of the day.
The Enduring Spirit of Ekushey
In a message released on the occasion, Prime Minister Rahman highlighted the core values of Ekushey, stating that “democratic values, people’s rights and equality were the core spirit of Ekushey.” He affirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the nation’s democratic progress, noting that democracy has been restored after a prolonged struggle. He also issued a call for global cooperation to uphold and protect the dignity of all languages worldwide.
The Prime Minister extended heartfelt greetings and congratulations to all linguistic and ethnic groups globally, including speakers of Bangla, on the observance of Shaheed Day and International Mother Language Day. He offered deep tribute to the martyrs of the 1952 Language Movement, whose sacrifices were instrumental in establishing the dignity of Bangla as a mother tongue.
A Legacy of Sacrifice: The 1952 Language Movement
The nation observes ‘Amar Ekushey’ annually, commemorating the supreme sacrifice of the language heroes who fought for the recognition of their mother tongue, Bangla. This day holds global significance, as UNESCO officially recognized Ekushey February as the International Mother Language Day on November 17, 1999.
Each year, on February 21st, citizens walk barefoot to the Central Shaheed Minar in Dhaka, carrying wreaths and flowers, and singing the iconic song ‘Amar bhaiyer rokte rangano Ekushey February’ (February 21, stained with my brother’s blood). This ritual is a profound expression of respect for the heroes of the Language Movement.
The movement itself was a direct response to the then Pakistani government’s decision to impose Urdu as the sole official language, denying Bangla its rightful place. On February 21, 1952, students and ordinary citizens in Dhaka took to the streets in protest. The procession, originating from the Dhaka University campus, defied Section 144 to press their demand for Bangla to be recognized as a state language. Tragically, police opened fire on the protestors, resulting in the deaths of brave individuals like Salam, Barkat, Rafiq, and Jabbar, among others. Their sacrifice became a cornerstone of the nation’s identity and a powerful symbol of the struggle for linguistic and cultural rights.
The day is a public holiday, allowing the entire nation to reflect on the sacrifices made and to reaffirm its commitment to linguistic diversity and cultural heritage.
