Shaheed Day
February 21, Friday
Historical Context
After the partition of British India in 1947, the country of Pakistan was formed, consisting of two parts: West Pakistan (present-day Pakistan) and East Pakistan (present-day Bangladesh). Despite the fact that the majority of the population in East Pakistan spoke Bengali, the government of West Pakistan declared Urdu as the only official state language.
Events of February 21, 1952
As a protest against the suppression of Bengali language rights, massive demonstrations took place in Dhaka. The police opened fire on protesting students, killing several of them. Their deaths became a symbol of the struggle for linguistic rights and national identity.
Significance of the Commemoration
Language Martyrs’ Day in Bangladesh is a national day of remembrance. On this day, mourning ceremonies are held, and flowers are placed at the Shaheed Minar monument in Dhaka, symbolizing the victims of the language movement.
International Recognition
In 1999, UNESCO declared February 21 as International Mother Language Day. This decision emphasized the importance of protecting and preserving linguistic diversity worldwide.
Celebration Traditions
- Flower-laying ceremonies at the Shaheed Minar monument
- Moments of silence in memory of the fallen
- Educational events and discussions on the importance of the mother tongue
- Organization of cultural events and exhibitions dedicated to the language movement
Language Martyrs’ Day in Bangladesh serves as a reminder of the importance of the mother tongue as a carrier of culture, history, and national identity.
Shaheed Day in other years
- 2021 February 21, Sunday
- 2022 February 21, Monday
- 2023 February 21, Tuesday
- 2024 February 21, Wednesday
- 2026 February 21, Saturday