February 21 marks Language Martyrs’ Day and International Mother Language Day, a solemn occasion in Bangladesh. People from all walks of life have gathered at Shaheed Minars nationwide to pay tribute to the language martyrs. Children, in particular, display a keen interest in learning about the significance of this day.
Among the many visitors, Habibur Rahman and Sadia Noor, a couple from Peshkarpara in Cox’s Bazar, arrived at the central Shaheed Minar with their two children, three-year-old Taqwa and eight-year-old Anadia. After offering floral tributes to the martyrs, they took a moment to share the history of the Language Movement with their children, explaining the sacrifices made for the right to speak in their mother tongue.
Speaking to Cox’s Bazar Life, the couple expressed their intent behind bringing their children to the Shaheed Minar, emphasizing the importance of educating the younger generation about the significance of February 21.
They were not alone in this endeavor—many other parents were seen bringing their children to the monument, fostering an environment of remembrance and respect for the language martyrs.
By Abdur Rashid Manik
Photo: Polash Shikdar