At the first hour of Shaheed Day and International Mother Language Day, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman paid deep tribute to the martyrs of the Language Movement at the Central Shaheed Minar in Dhaka. At 12:01 am on Friday night, he placed floral wreaths at the altar, honoring those who sacrificed their lives for the recognition of Bangla as a state language.

Earlier, President Mohammad Shahabuddin was the first to lay a wreath at the Shaheed Minar, following state protocol. After the President’s tribute, the Prime Minister offered his respects. The atmosphere at the monument was solemn and emotionally charged, as political leaders, government officials, cultural activists, and thousands of citizens gathered to commemorate the historic day.

Following the wreath-laying ceremony, a special prayer (munajat) was held seeking forgiveness and eternal peace for the souls of the language martyrs. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman joined members of the cabinet, his advisers, and senior party leaders in the prayer. Supplications were also offered for the continued progress of the nation, the strengthening of democracy, and the preservation of the dignity of the Bangla language. The presence of a large crowd added to the gravity and reverence of the occasion.

After the prayer, the Prime Minister stood in silent respect for a few moments before the martyr’s altar. Cabinet members subsequently paid their tributes individually. Leaders and activists from various political parties followed, placing wreaths one after another. Leaders of the BNP also paid tribute separately.

As in previous years, a large number of people gathered at the Shaheed Minar from the very first hour of 21 February. The participation of young people was particularly noticeable. Many arrived carrying flowers, banners, and placards, while others wore black badges as a symbol of mourning and respect. The iconic song “Amar Bhaiyer Rokte Rangano Ekushey February” echoed throughout the premises, reviving the spirit and sacrifice of the 1952 Language Movement.

The Language Movement of 1952 remains a defining chapter in the nation’s history. On 21 February of that year, students and activists laid down their lives demanding recognition of Bangla as a state language. Since then, the day has been observed with profound respect and reflection. Beyond national significance, the day also holds international recognition as International Mother Language Day, symbolizing the global importance of linguistic diversity and cultural identity.

The participation of the country’s highest state authorities underscores the enduring significance of the Language Movement in national consciousness. The Prime Minister’s presence added further dignity to the observance. Throughout the day, various government and non-government organizations are expected to hold programs commemorating the martyrs and reaffirming commitment to the promotion and protection of the Bangla language.

The tribute at the first hour of Ekushey is more than a ceremonial act—it represents a collective pledge to uphold the ideals of linguistic rights, cultural heritage, and national identity for generations to come.