US Ambassador Extends Mother Language Day Greetings in Bangla, Honoring Bangladesh’s Language Martyrs

On the occasion of Shaheed Day and International Mother Language Day, the United States Ambassador to Bangladesh, Brent Christensen, conveyed his greetings to the people of Bangladesh in Bangla. His message, delivered in the country’s mother tongue, was widely seen as a heartfelt tribute to the martyrs of the 1952 Language Movement and a gesture of respect for Bangladesh’s linguistic heritage.

In a video message published on the official Facebook page of the U.S. Embassy Dhaka on Saturday (21 February), Ambassador Christensen said in Bangla, “Greetings to everyone on this মহান একুশে. I pay deep respect to the language martyrs. Language is the identity of our culture.” He noted that 21 February reminds people of the importance of speaking in their own language and preserving their history. On behalf of the United States, he expressed solidarity with the people of Bangladesh on this significant day.

Meanwhile, International Mother Language Day is being observed across the country with due solemnity and respect. In the first hours of the day, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman paid homage to the language martyrs by placing a wreath at the Central Shaheed Minar in Dhaka. After laying the wreath, he stood in silent tribute alongside cabinet members and senior political leaders to honor the memory of those who sacrificed their lives for the Bangla language.

Following the Prime Minister’s tribute, the Leader of the Opposition, members of parliament, the Chief Whip, and the chiefs of the three armed forces also placed wreaths at the memorial. Foreign diplomats and high-ranking military and civil officials were present, showing collective respect for the historic sacrifice.

Once the state ceremonies concluded, the Shaheed Minar was opened to the public. From early morning, people from different walks of life—many barefoot and carrying ফুল—walked slowly toward the monument to the tune of “Amar Bhaiyer Rokte Rangano Ekushey February.” Thousands offered floral tributes in memory of those who laid down their lives on 21 February 1952 to protect the dignity of the Bangla language.

Observances were not limited to the capital; programs were organized in districts across the country and at Bangladesh missions abroad. Globally, International Mother Language Day is recognized as a symbol of linguistic and cultural diversity. The Ambassador’s gesture of delivering his message in Bangla further highlighted the global significance of the day and reinforced the universal values of preserving language, culture, and identity.