Celebrate IML Day in Connecticut
Staff Reporter: Bangladesh Friends and Family of Connecticut observed Shaheed Day and International Mother Language Day with solemn respect and cultural programs in the U.S. state of Connecticut. A large number of people gathered to pay tribute to the language martyrs on the occasion.
From noon until afternoon, children, youth, and seniors from diverse backgrounds visited the temporary Shaheed Minar set up at Center Congregational Church to offer their respects.
On this day in 1952, Salam, Barkat, Rafiq, Jabbar, and Shafiur made the ultimate sacrifice to defend the dignity of their mother tongue, leaving an unparalleled legacy in world history.
This year marks the 74th anniversary of that historic sacrifice. The day is not only significant for Bengalis but also for speakers of thousands of languages worldwide who commemorate it with reverence.
The February 21 event in Manchester began with the national anthem of the United States followed by the national anthem of Bangladesh. Cultural performances featured Kausholy Ema, director of Sangeet Academy, along with her students, Shuddhaswar director Shanta Nag and her students, Anondodhoni from New York,
Recitation by Meher Kabir, songs by Tama Chakraborty and Athena Besra, dance performances by Antara Saha and her group, children from Rokaiya Rekha’s dance group and a group dance by the Bangladesh Christian Association of Connecticut (BCAC). Artists were accompanied on tabla and instrumental music by Lawrence Besra and Liton Gregory.
The program was directed by Harun Ahmed and Molla Bahauddin Piyal, with joint emceeing by Mahmuda Gulshan Lizi and Shahriar Islam Arif. Distinguished guests delivering remarks included Manchester Mayor Jay Moran, Board of Education Director Kwasi Mensa, Dr. Hafsa Siddika Imam, and Dr. Sir Tasnim.
The event concluded with the laying of floral wreaths at the temporary Shaheed Minar, where Bangladesh Friends and Family of CT, Bangladesh Christian Association of Connecticut (BCAC) and the United Bangladeshi Christian Community (UBCC) paid deep homage to the language martyrs.
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