February 21, now known as International Mother Language Day, is a day of profound significance, not only for Bangladesh but for the entire world. It commemorates the sacrifices made by the people of Bangladesh (then East Pakistan) in 1952 to establish their right to speak their mother tongue, Bangla. This historic movement laid the foundation for global recognition of linguistic diversity and human rights. As the world observes this day, it is crucial to understand its historical roots, the impact on Bangladesh, and the broader implications for language preservation worldwide.
The History: A Struggle for Identity and Justice
The roots of International Mother Language Day trace back to the early years of Pakistan’s creation in 1947 when the ruling government attempted to impose Urdu as the sole state language. This decision marginalized millions of Bangla-speaking people in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), who made up the majority of the population.
On February 21, 1952, students from the University of Dhaka and other institutions organized protests demanding recognition of Bangla as one of the state languages. In a tragic turn of events, police opened fire on demonstrators, killing several students, including Salam, Rafiq, Barkat, Jabbar, and many others. Their sacrifice became the catalyst for a broader movement that eventually led to Bangla being recognized as an official language of Pakistan in 1956.
This struggle was not just about language—it was about identity, dignity, and the right to cultural self-expression. The events of 1952 laid the groundwork for the independence movement that led to the birth of Bangladesh in 1971.
The Global Recognition: From Dhaka to UNESCO
For decades, Bangladeshis honored February 21 as Shaheed Dibosh (Martyrs’ Day). However, the global significance of this day expanded when UNESCO, in 1999, declared it as International Mother Language Day. Since 2000, countries worldwide have observed this day to promote linguistic and cultural diversity.
The decision to recognize this day at an international level was spearheaded by Bangladesh, with the aim of highlighting the importance of linguistic rights across the world. In a world where thousands of languages are at risk of extinction, this recognition underscores the necessity of preserving linguistic diversity.
Bangladesh Today: A Nation Built on Language and Culture
More than seventy years after the language movement, Bangladesh remains a country where language and cultural identity are deeply embedded in its national consciousness. The country continues to commemorate February 21 with solemn processions, cultural events, and tributes at the Central Shaheed Minar in Dhaka.
Beyond commemoration, Bangladesh has made strides in education and cultural preservation, ensuring that Bangla remains at the heart of its governance, literature, and communication. However, challenges remain, including the dominance of English in global discourse and the struggle of indigenous languages within Bangladesh itself.
The Global Crisis: Endangered Languages and the Fight for Linguistic Rights
While Bangladesh successfully defended its linguistic rights, many communities around the world are not as fortunate. According to UNESCO, nearly 40% of the world’s 7,000 languages are at risk of disappearing. Globalization, forced migration, and government policies that favor dominant languages contribute to this crisis.
Countries with diverse linguistic populations, such as India, Canada, and Nigeria, face similar challenges in ensuring equal rights for minority languages. Indigenous communities across Australia, Latin America, and Africa are struggling to keep their languages alive in the face of cultural assimilation.
The spirit of February 21 serves as a reminder that language is more than just a tool of communication—it is a fundamental human right. The loss of a language signifies the loss of history, knowledge, and cultural heritage.
The Future: Preserving Languages in the Digital Age
As the world moves towards digitization, language preservation faces both challenges and opportunities. While major languages dominate the internet, social media, and artificial intelligence, efforts are being made to ensure that smaller languages are not erased.
Initiatives like:
• Digital language archives
• AI-driven translation tools
• Online education in native languages
• Policy interventions to support bilingual education
…are all crucial in keeping linguistic diversity alive.
Governments, institutions, and communities must take proactive steps to protect endangered languages, just as Bangladesh did in 1952.
The Legacy of February 21 Lives On
International Mother Language Day is more than a tribute to the martyrs of 1952—it is a call to action for people worldwide. It reminds us of the power of language in shaping identity, preserving culture, and fighting for human rights.
As we observe this day, we must reflect on our role in preserving linguistic diversity and ensuring that no community is deprived of their right to speak, learn, and express themselves in their mother tongue. The struggle of Bangladesh was not just for Bangla—it was for every language that risks being silenced.
This February 21, let us honor those who gave their lives for linguistic freedom and recommit to protecting every language, everywhere.