Ekushey February, ami ki bhuli ti pari? (21st of February How Could I ever forget you?)

Sunday, February 21st, 2010: International Mother Language Day...

Today was a National Holiday here and for good reason. For the past 25 years, since my birth, I have lived in the U.S. I have celebrated Bangladeshi holidays in the U.S. not really understanding the meaning behind them nor really feeling any tie to them myself--even though all of the parents in my family have experienced the events of the liberation war first hand. There are many bangla songs written about the the liberation war and about the 21st of february, in 1952 which actually sparked the events of the following 20 years which eventually led to the independence of Bangladesh from Pakistan. There is one song in particular which begs the question, how could I forget you february 21st? Well, growing up in the U.S. i'm sorry to say i've forgotten almost every year until i'm reminded by my parents..that will never happen again because today I've experienced this holiday first hand here and its a bit inspiring to see so many people so passionate about their country.

February 21st, 1952...a time during which Bangladesh was known as East Pakistan and the language forced upon its people at that time was urdu-the bangla language was banned and urdu was established as the official state language. Remember that current bangladesh is separated from pakistan by India...the culture and language in Bangladesh were bound to be different and of their own unique nature. In revolt of the Pakistani decision, on Feb 21st, 1952 student leaders from Dhaka University organized a PEACEFUL rally. The students broke curfew imposed by the government and were representing their right to speak their language. The government ordered its security forces to open fire on the unarmed students as they were trying to march to the assembly building nearby to have their demands heard...in mere 30minutes twelve students and an unidentified rickshaw driver were killed..giving their lives to preserve the Bangla language.

Think about what your language means to you--how would you communicate your feelings, how would you express your intelligent thoughts and ideas. Then think about what your passionate about in your life--would you risk your life for it? That's what these students did. I may not be able to speak Bangla as well as I would like but it is a part of my culture, heritage-it is what connects me to the people of this country, especially the family I have here. and in the spirit of the intentions of these students who gave their lives, as well as the freedom fighters who fought for the liberation of this country-including my grandfather and father and many others-I will make sure to maintain my Bangla language and heritage.