The ET GenAI Hackathon 2026 has announced the results of its Idea Submission phase, with the shortlist finalised after evaluating entries from more than 54,000 builders across India. Shortlisted teams now advance to the Prototype Development Phase
The fast-expanding war between the United States, Israel, and Iran has captured global attention largely because it is disrupting oil and gas supplies from the Persian Gulf. Yet another resource is now emerging as far more critical to the survival of the region’s societies. Water
Indian technology stocks have seen an unprecedented rout over the past few weeks over fears of artificial intelligence upending the traditional outsourcing model that powers the country's $300bn (£223bn) back-office industry. The sell-off - part of a global correction in traditional software and
The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) on Monday managed an easy victory in the biennial polls to five Rajya Sabha seats in Bihar, with its candidates including Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and BJP national president Nitin Nabin
Star Brazilian forward Neymar didn’t receive a call-up to the national team squad for the upcoming friendlies against France and Croatia, although striker Endrick found a spot. With this snub, Neymar’s hopes of playing at the upcoming FIFA World Cup have received a massive blow
If one wants to explore the many debates and controversies surrounding the Congress and its role in shaping India’s political trajectory, there may soon be a new address in the capital to turn to. At 3, Safdarjung Lane, the official residence of Nishikant Dubey — the Bharatiya Janata Party MP
Chelsea have been handed a Premier League record fine of £10.75m and a suspended transfer ban. It was a result of the club making secret payments to unregistered agents and third-parties over transfers between 2011 and 2018. But it could have been a lot worse
Iran’s National Security Chief Ali Larijani on Monday penned a note to Muslim countries, questioning their lack of support for Tehran as the US-Israeli war is now entering its third week with no clear end in sight, disrupting global energy supplies and raising fears of a spike in global inflation
21 Feb & the politics of remembrance: Preserving Bangladesh’s language legacy
21 February and the politics of remembrance: Preserving Bangladesh’s language legacy
At the Shaheed Minar in Dhaka, people gather annually-- often barefoot--to lay flowers in remembrance. The ritual is solemn, emotional and deeply rooted in national tradition.
Few events have shaped Bangladesh’s identity as deeply as the Language Movement of 1952. What began as student protests over language policy became a defining struggle for dignity and self-expression. Young people, many barely out of their teens, stood before armed police to demand that Bengali, the language spoken by the majority, be recognised as a state language. Some of them never returned home.
Each year on 21 February, Bangladesh commemorates its sacrifice. The day, now observed globally as International Mother Language Day, is not only a tribute to those who died but also a reminder of how language became the foundation of national consciousness. The movement’s legacy flowed directly into the broader political awakening that culminated in independence in 1971.
More than seven decades later, however, a debate has resurfaced over how this history is being taught.
In 1947, when British India was partitioned, East Pakistan was governed from West Pakistan. Despite Bengalis forming the majority of the population, Urdu was declared the sole national language and to many in the eastern wing, this decision symbolised marginalisation that extended beyond language into politics, culture and opportunity.
University students in Dhaka became the heart of resistance. On 21 February 1952, defying a government ban on public gatherings, they marched to demand recognition of Bengali. Police fired on the unarmed protesters. Several were killed, and hundreds were arrested.
The shock of that day transformed public sentiment. Names like Salam, Barkat and Rafiq became woven into the country’s collective memory. Within a few years, the language issue reshaped electoral politics, and in 1956 Bengali was granted state language status alongside Urdu.
The events of 1952 stand out globally as a rare instance where lives were lost solely in defence of a mother tongue.
Decades later, Bangladesh took the story of 21 February to the world stage. In 1999, UNESCO recognised the date as International Mother Language Day, and since 2000 it has been observed across nearly every country. The aim is to protect linguistic diversity in a world where many languages are disappearing.
At the Shaheed Minar in Dhaka, people gather annually-- often barefoot--to lay flowers in remembrance. The ritual is solemn, emotional and deeply rooted in national tradition.
However, outside of Bangladesh, the event has also inspired discussions on how to protect endangered languages. UNESCO reports that thousands of languages are still endangered, which reinforces the message of 21st February every year.
The language movement was more than the recognition of Bengali as an official language; it brought about a political awareness in East Pakistan. The language movement led to the Six Point Movement in the 1960s.
The Awami League swept the 1970 elections in East Pakistan under the leadership of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. When political power was denied, the situation deteriorated into the 1971 Liberation War, which resulted in the loss of millions of lives and finally led to the creation of Bangladesh.
After independence, Bengali was declared the only national language in the Constitution, marking the triumph of a struggle that had begun almost two decades earlier.
The cultural influence was no less significant. Literature, music, and folk culture thrived and helped to create an identity based on language.
However, in recent years, political events have reopened debates about how this history is taught in schools. Following the departure of Sheikh Hasina in August 2024 because of protests by students, an interim government led by Muhammad Yunus started changes to the textbooks in schools through the National Curriculum and Textbook Board.
Among the changes were the removal of certain honorifics associated with Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, shorter excerpts from his 7 March 1971 address and reduced coverage of the 1952 movement. However, there was also more room for alternative political figures and approaches to the period of independence.
Supporters of the changes believe that the aim is to have a more balanced and fact-based narrative. Opponents believe that the changes are an attempt to manipulate collective memory. Protests ensued and further debate arose regarding national commemorations.
There have also been indications of a generational gap. Surveys in 2025 showed that a substantial number of young people did not have a detailed understanding of the events of 1952. Reports of fewer people visiting memorial sites further fueled concerns about declining interest.
Even with all the debate and political tension, Bengali remains one of the most widely spoken languages in the world. It is carried in the voices of hundreds of millions of people and events such as the annual Ekushey Book Fair still bring together huge crowds, with all celebrating the language with pride. It is a reminder that Bengali is not fading. It is alive in everyday life.
Now, with Tarique Rahman taking office in February 2026, many are watching closely to see how history will be taught in the years ahead. His party has spoken about presenting a more inclusive national story. However, how that promise will shape school textbooks is still uncertain.
For countless Bangladeshis, this conversation is not simply about politics. It touches something deeper--the memory of young people who gave their lives in 1952 so their mother tongue could be respected. The martyrs are remembered not just as names in books, but as symbols of the right to speak, learn and dream in one’s own language.
That is why 21 February still carries such emotional weight. It reminds the nation that language is not just words. It is belonging, history and identity and keeping that memory alive ensures that the sacrifices of 1952 remain part of the country’s shared story, honoured with truth and care.
Source: ZeeNews
Related Posts: New terminal of Guwahati airport to begin operations from Feb Politics Heats Up Over Senior Kerala Congress MLA K Babu steps down from electoral politics Silver prices bleed today (Feb 18) US-Iran likely to hold nuclear deal talks on Feb 17 in Geneva Delhi traffic advisory issued for AI Summit 2026 from Feb 16-20 National highways toll charges revised from Feb 15 – here’s what it means for commuters Delhi’s historic Feb 13 Tata Punch EV facelift arrives Feb 20 - Sierra EV coming around mid-2026 Europe to launch most powerful rocket Ariane 64 on Feb 12
Nagaon MP Pradyut Bordoloi expressed strong displeasure over Dr. Asif Nazar being considered for the Lahorighat Assembly ticket, citing Nazar's alleged association with an individual charged in an attack on Bordoloi. Bordoloi wrote to AICC General Secretary Jitendra Singh
6 hours ago
A sessions court in Gujarat’s Gir Somnath district on Monday convicted five persons and acquitted 35 others in connection with a 2016 case in which seven Dalits were assaulted in the town of Una, The Indian Express reported. Additional Sessions Judge Jignesh Pandya of the court in Veraval
6 hours ago
It's Hollywood's biggest night. The 98th Academy Awards featured emotional speeches, comical relief and a bevy of backstage fun. But it was perhaps a night to forget for Timothée Chalamet. As well as losing out to Michael B Jordan for best actor and One Battle After Another for best picture
6 hours ago
US President Donald Trump on Monday said more than 30 mine laying ships of Iran have been destroyed which has affected Tehran’s capacity to threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. “We are hammering their capacity to threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz with more
6 hours ago
Love Horoscope Today for March 17, 2026: A spontaneous moment could lead to a meaningful connectionLove Horoscope Today, March 17, 2026: Find daily astrological predictions for all sun signs. Published on: Mar 17, 2026 7:28 AM IST By Neeraj Dhankher Share via Copy link Aries: Mars is pushing you to
6 hours ago
Dubai arrests Iranian drone strike survivors after they sent explosion photos to loved ones3 foreigner nationals who survived drone strike in Dubai have been arrested after sending photos of the explosions to family members. Updated on: Mar 16
6 hours ago
‘Firms need to move to adaptive, energy-efficient AI models’Sarah Hooker is convinced that the future lies in AI systems that use less computing power, cost less to run and can adapt to the needs of users. Published on: Mar 17, 2026 6:58 AM IST By Shweta Taneja Share via Copy link In the last
6 hours ago
Baghdad witnessed a significant drone and rocket attack on the U.S. embassy early Tuesday. This incident marks the most intense assault since the commencement of the U.S.-Israel war with Iran. Iraqi security forces have heightened their presence across the capital. The Green Zone
6 hours ago
Russell Wilson trade update: Chiefs hand a shock to Giants QB with Justin Fields move Published on: Mar 17, 2026 5:03 AM IST By Khushi Arora Share via Copy link New York Giants quarterback Russell Wilson (3) waves to fans after the game against the Dallas Cowboys (IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
6 hours ago
![London [UK], March 17 (ANI): The Premier League has completed a disciplinary process with Chelsea FC in respect of historical breaches relating to Financial](http://newsorbit360.com/files/news/en/imgs/chelsea-fined-and-faces-supended-transfer-ban-by-premier-league.webp?height=520)
London [UK], March 17 (ANI): The Premier League has completed a disciplinary process with Chelsea FC in respect of historical breaches relating to Financial Reporting and Third Party Investment.In 2022, Chelsea FC’s current owners voluntarily reported to the League that they had evidence of
6 hours ago
A Bengaluru-based cafe has drawn attention on social media after adding a 5 per cent “Gas Crisis Charge" to a customer’s lemonade order, sparking debate on social media platform X. The unusual fee, applied on a bill for two mint lemonades, has left many users amused and some questioning its
6 hours ago
Editorial independence is core to our work. Some links may earn us a commission, without influencing our opinions.Still using an older laptop? These Intel 13th Gen laptops show what modern performance feels likeIntel 13th Gen laptops bring improved performance
6 hours ago
US President Donald Trump said on Monday that he is planning to delay a high stakes visit to China later in March by about a month because of the Iran war. "We've requested that we delay it a month or so," he told reporters at the White House
6 hours ago
LDF ally ISJD, UDF ally RSP name candidates for four seats eachThe ISJD and RSP announced their candidates for Kerala Assembly polls, with ISJD's K Krishnankutty retiring from politics and RSP seeking assembly representation. Published on: Mar 17, 2026 7:30 AM IST By Vishnu Varma
6 hours ago
Horoscope Today, March 17, 2026: Operational strategies at work need refinementHoroscope Today: Read the astrological predictions for each zodiac sign based on an expert's guidance on March 17, 2026. Published on: Mar 17, 2026 7:19 AM IST By Dr Prem Kumar Sharma
6 hours ago
Viswanathan Anand has defended Cyprus as the host of the upcoming FIDE Candidates Tournament, saying the island nation offers a high-quality setting for one of chess’ most important events despite concerns over regional tensions. Cyprus has been in focus due to its proximity to the evolving Gulf
6 hours ago
A parliamentary panel has flagged the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment for surrendering nearly a quarter of funds sanctioned for Scheduled Caste welfare schemes. The committee found the ministry's inability to utilize allocated funds and its consistent budget scaling down at revised
6 hours ago
Fino Payments Bank clarifies the ongoing probe relates only to certain programme managers and merchants associated with multiple banks. Also Read :10 people dead after fire breaks out at Odisha’s Cuttack SCB Medical College; CM announces Rs 25 lakh ex-gratia assistanceFino Payments Bank clarifies
6 hours ago
When the daytime air feels like an oven and night brings no relief, people in Karachi, Pakistan, say the heat “goes straight to the head”. They mean more than dizziness or sweat. It’s the creeping panic of a body that cannot cool down: restless nights, frayed tempers, a household on edge
6 hours ago
Dozens of people are feared dead or injured at a drug treatment centre in Kabul, Afghanistan after an air strike that the Taliban government blamed on Pakistan. The hospital was hit on Monday evening, killing some people and injuring others, the government's spokesman said on X
6 hours ago
The report from Elara Capital said retail gasoline and diesel prices “could be fully protected through excise cuts until roughly $110/bbl, beyond which price hikes on diesel and gasoline would become inevitable”. Also Read :Fino Payments Bank Shares Fall To 52-Week Low Amid Probe Reports;
6 hours ago
Shocked Karan Johar reveals his 9-year-old son Yash's ‘business proposal’ as he wants to pay rent to him. WatchKaran Johar and his son Yash had a fun conversation as they discussed a business proposal. Watch their banter here. Mar 17, 2026, 06:00:58 IST By Ananya Das Share via Copy link
6 hours ago
Punjab Assembly session: House passes motion against LoP Bajwa over ‘band player’ remarkThe Punjab assembly condemned opposition leader Partap Singh Bajwa for alleged derogatory remarks about a minister, leading to chaos and a walkout by Congress. Published on: Mar 17
6 hours ago
More than a thousand citizens in Ladakh's Leh and Kargil regions rallied on Monday, echoing calls for statehood and adherence to the Sixth Schedule. Leaders from the Apex Body Leh alongside the Kargil Democratic Alliance expressed their discontent regarding the central government's stance
6 hours ago
Menstrual pain is often dismissed as an inevitable part of being a woman. But when cramps become debilitating, interfere with daily life or are accompanied by chronic pelvic discomfort, they may signal something more serious. One such condition is endometriosis – a long-term disorder affecting
6 hours ago
Khushbu Sundar comes out in support of Trisha amid her viral pics with Vijay: ‘She is one of the most dignified women’Khushbu Sundar has addressed the online chatter surrounding the public appearance of Vijay and Trisha Krishnan, after the divorce petition filed by Sangeeta. Mar 17, 2026
6 hours ago
Rex Culpepper's fiancee pays sweet tribute after tragic bike accident death: ‘I don’t regret' Published on: Mar 17, 2026 4:55 AM IST By Yash Nitish Bajaj Share via Copy link Former Syracuse quarterback Rex Culpepper died after an accident on Saturday (Instagram/Rex Culpepper) Rex Culpepper
6 hours ago
