Thousands of people flooded the Central Shaheed Minar in the early hours of February 21 to pay homage to the martyrs of the 1952 Language Movement. The solemn tributes commenced at the first hour of the day, led by President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus.
At 12:40am, the site was opened to the public, prompting a vast influx of mourners.
As dawn broke over Dhaka, a sombre yet resolute atmosphere prevailed.
People from all walks of life, carrying banners, wreaths, and floral tributes, queued in long lines to honour the fallen heroes.
The air resonated with the poignant strains of "Amar Bhaiyer Rokte Rangano Ekushey February," as children and elders alike joined in remembrance. Various social, cultural, and political organisations also paid their respects.
Given the significance of the day, heightened security measures were in place across Dhaka University, the Central Shaheed Minar, and surrounding areas.
Attendees reflected on the enduring legacy of the Language Movement, drawing parallels between the struggle of 1952 and the recent events of 5 August, which led to the ousting of an autocratic regime.
Many expressed that the martyrs’ sacrifices continue to inspire the fight for justice and democracy.
Rajib Hossain, a student of Dhaka College, shared his sentiments: “These valiant souls gave their lives so that we could speak in our mother tongue. They stood against oppression, and today, we honour them with deep reverence.”
Sohan Rahman, who had travelled from Azimpur, echoed this sentiment: “Had our forebears not laid down their lives in 1952, we would not have the right to speak in Bangla today. Every year, I come at the first hour to pay my respects. Speaking in Bangla fills me with pride, and I bow before their supreme sacrifice.”
As the day unfolded, the echoes of remembrance lingered, reaffirming the undying spirit of the Language Movement in the hearts of the Bangladeshi people.