Kathmandu: Great Martyr’s Day and International Mother Language Day (IMLD) 2026 was observed with solemnity and enthusiasm at the Embassy of Bangladesh, Kathmandu through a two-day programme highlighting linguistic diversity and cultural heritage.
The event brought together heads of missions, diplomats from various embassies and international organizations, representatives of the SAARC Secretariat, officials from ICIMOD, linguists, academicians, business representatives, and members of the Bangladeshi community in Nepal.
Diplomatic representatives laid floral tributes at the Shaheed Minar inside the Embassy premises in honor of the language martyrs of 1952. Messages from the President, Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, and State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh were read during the ceremony, while a video message from the President of the UNESCO General Conference was also screened.
In his welcome remarks, the Ambassador of Bangladesh H. E. Shafiqur Rahman paid tribute to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives to protect the Bangla language and emphasized the importance of preserving mother languages through multilingual, mother-tongue-based education. Highlighting this year’s theme, “Youth voices on multilingual education,” he stressed the role of young people and technology in promoting linguistic diversity and strengthening unity among communities.
The Head of UNESCO Office in Nepal attended as special guest, while diplomats from Finland, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and Russia, along with a deputy representative from UNICEF, delivered remarks in their respective mother tongues. Speakers praised Bangladesh’s global leadership in promoting International Mother Language Day and underscored the importance of multilingual education for sustainable development.
The discussion session was followed by multicultural performances featuring songs in Nepali, Newari, Tamang, and Bangla languages, along with a traditional Tharu dance. The cultural programme was organized in collaboration with a local Kathmandu school, and artists from the Bangladeshi community also performed.
The observance began on 21 February with the national flag flown at half-mast, followed by a “probhat fery” procession and special prayers dedicated to the language martyrs. The programme concluded with a dinner showcasing traditional Bangladeshi cuisine.
