The Manikganj district administration observed the day with a series of programs. Photo: BSS

MANIKGANJ, Feb 21, 2026 (BSS) - People of Manikganj paid homage to the valiant language martyrs, including the son of Manikganj, Shahid Rafique Uddin, who was killed on February 21, 1952, on the occasion of Martyrs' Day and International Mother Language Day 2026.

The Manikganj district administration observed the day with a series of programs.

Deputy Commissioner Nazmun Ara Sultana, along with her administrative officials, placed floral wreaths at the Central Shahid Minar at Manikganj Government High School Playground at 12:01 am. She later offered wreaths at the first Shahid Minar in front of Manikganj Surendra Kumar Government Girls' High School at 12:25 am.

The day's program began with the hoisting of national flags at half-mast on government, non-government, autonomous, and private buildings at sunrise.

A reception was held at the Manikganj District Shilpakala Academy to honor the families of Shahid Rafique and other listed language movement heroes from the district.

Special prayers were offered at local mosques for the departed souls of the language martyrs. Cultural activities, including painting, essay, and handwriting competitions, were organized for school students to commemorate the historic day.