A two-day book fair and poetry recitation programme began on JU campus today marking the Martyrs' Day and International Mother Language Day. Photo: BSS

JAHANGIRNAGAR UNIVERSITY, Feb 21, 2026 (BSS) - A two-day book fair and poetry recitation programme began on Jahangirnagar University (JU) campus today marking the Martyrs' Day and International Mother Language Day.

The fair was inaugurated at MahuaTala this morning under the initiative of Biborton Sangsad and Zia Smriti Pathagar. The organisers said the fair will continue tomorrow between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm.

Zia Smriti Pathagar President Saidur Rahman Simanto said teachers inaugurated the programme by cutting the ribbon and delivered inspiring speeches, expressing hope that the event would increase students' interest in reading books and promote a knowledge-based culture.

Convener of Biborton Sangsad Sadekul Islam Timon said the programme was arranged to pay tribute to the language martyrs and to honour linguistic diversity, including the languages and cultures of indigenous communities of the country.

Adviser of Biborton Sangsad and Director of the Institute of Comparative Literature and Culture Prof Dr Shamima Sultana said the Language Movement marked the beginning of the nation's democratic journey and ensuring proper use of Bangla at all levels remains essential for protecting national identity.

A special "Jahangirnagar Corner" has been set up at the fair displaying books written by JU students and writers, while other stalls feature language movement-based publications alongside literary works of renowned authors.

Acting Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences Prof Dr Md Shamsul Alam, Proctor Prof Dr A K M Rashidul Alam, Chairman of Mathematics Department Prof Dr Mohammad Nazrul Islam, Drama and Dramatics Department Prof Mohammad Khorshed Alam, among others, were present.