Bangladesh and nations around the world are today observing International Mother Language Day 2026, a day dedicated to promoting linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism. The observance commemorates the sacrifices of the Language Movement martyrs who laid down their lives in 1952 to defend the right to speak and preserve their mother tongue.

According to the BSS, the President and the Prime Minister of Bangladesh paid homage to the language martyrs by placing wreaths at the Central Shaheed Minar in the early hours of the day. Following them, senior government officials, diplomats, cultural representatives, and political leaders also laid wreaths in tribute. People from all walks of life joined the solemn observance, wearing black badges and offering floral tributes to honour those who embraced martyrdom during the 1952 movement in what was then East Pakistan.

The Language Movement reached its climax on February 21, 1952, when students and activists including Salam, Rafique, Shafiq, Jabbar, and Barkat were killed in police firing near Dhaka Medical College while protesting to establish Bangla as a state language. Their sacrifices ultimately led to the recognition of Bangla as one of Pakistan’s official languages in 1956, laying the foundation for the later struggle for independence and the creation of Bangladesh.

Recognised by UNESCO on November 17, 1999, as International Mother Language Day, February 21 is now marked worldwide to promote respect for linguistic diversity and the preservation of endangered languages. Across Bangladesh, national flags are being flown at half-mast, and special programmes are taking place at schools, universities, museums, and cultural institutions.

The Bangladesh National Museum, the Museum of Independence, and other heritage sites are offering free entry for children, students, and senior citizens, while screening documentaries and organising exhibitions related to the Language Movement. Television and radio stations are broadcasting special programmes, and prayers are being held in places of worship for the eternal peace of the martyrs.

Globally, International Mother Language Day serves as a reminder of the enduring importance of linguistic identity, cultural inclusion, and the right of every community to preserve and promote its mother tongue.

BOB Post