Today marks the Great Shaheed Day and International Mother Language Day, commemorating the 74th anniversary of the historic Language Movement of 1952. The day is being observed with due solemnity and respect across the country and the globe.

State Tributes at Central Shaheed Minar
The formal programs began at the stroke of midnight (12:01 AM) on Saturday (February 21). President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman led the nation in paying homage by placing floral wreaths at the altar of the Central Shaheed Minar.

Following the state dignitaries, political leaders, social organizations, and thousands of barefoot citizens—carrying flowers and wearing black badges—joined the procession to honor the language heroes.

Global Significance and Theme
This year, UNESCO has set the global theme for International Mother Language Day 2026 as:

The theme highlights the critical role of the younger generation in preserving linguistic diversity and promoting inclusive education in mother tongues.

Historical Context
On this day in 1952, students and activists in Dhaka defied Section 144 to protest the declaration of Urdu as the sole state language of Pakistan.

Police opened fire on the demonstrators, resulting in the martyrdom of Salam, Barkat, Rafiq, Jabbar, Shafiur, and many others. Their sacrifice eventually forced the then-government to recognize Bangla as a state language in 1956.

Following a proposal by Bangladesh, UNESCO officially recognized February 21 as International Mother Language Day in 1999, which has been observed worldwide since 2000.

Nationwide Programs
Religious Observances: Special prayers (doa and fatiha) are being held at mosques, temples, and churches for the departed souls of the martyrs.

Azimpur Graveyard: Early morning tributes were paid at the graves of the language martyrs.

Security: A massive security blanket has been thrown over the capital, with over 15,000 DMP personnel and additional RAB units deployed to ensure peaceful celebrations.