Mainamati War Cemetery in Cumilla. Photo : BSS

By Delwar Hossain Akaid

CUMILLA, Sept 25, 2025 (BSS) - Although no direct battlefield of World War II existed on the soil of Bangladesh, the Mainamati War Cemetery in Cumilla still stands as a silent witness to that war.

On one side lies the serene beauty of nature, and on the other, rows upon rows of tombstones together making the site not just a cemetery but a living testament to the horrors of war, the sacrifices made, and the eternal need for peace.

From 1939 to 1945, the world witnessed the deadliest conflict in history-World War II. In Southeast Asia, the Myanmar Front was strategically important.

Between 1941 and 1945, fierce battles took place along the Myanmar border between Commonwealth forces and Japanese troops. About 45,000 soldiers lost their lives during that time.

In memory of them, war cemeteries were established in different places in Bangladesh, India, and Myanmar. Mainamati War Cemetery in Cumilla is one of the most prominent and best-preserved.

It is situated across nearly four acres of land adjacent to the Mainamati Cantonment. The cemetery offers a poignant blend of natural beauty and solemn remembrance. Lush green lawns, carefully maintained trees, and meticulously preserved headstones create an atmosphere of serenity while reminding visitors of a tragic chapter in human history.

Soldiers from 13 nations were laid to rest there, including 357 from the United Kingdom, 12 from Canada, 12 from Australia, 4 from New Zealand, 171 from undivided India, 3 from Rhodesia, 56 from East Africa, and 86 from West Africa, totaling 737.

Following the repatriation of the remains of 24 Japanese soldiers in November last year, the number of graves currently stands at 713.

Visitors say that each headstone tells its own story. Every name, every date of birth and death bears witness to the cruelty of war. Many of those buried here were very young-some only 18 or 19 years old when they died in battle. While the cemetery's natural beauty brings a sense of calm, the graves evoke deep sorrow.

Lamisa Tabassum Mim, a visitor from Narsingdi, said, "At first, I thought I would just see a British graveyard. But upon arriving, I realized that each grave carries an untold history. Standing here, one can truly feel how devastating war can be."

Every year, during the first week of November, a remembrance ceremony is held here. Representatives and diplomats from Commonwealth countries pay tribute to the fallen soldiers. The cemetery fills with solemn prayers and emotions, spreading a message of peace and compassion.

The Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) maintains the cemetery. Abdur Rahim Sabuj, CWGC's Country Administrator for Bangladesh, said, "Mainamati War Cemetery is not just a burial ground-it is a unique record of the horrors of war and the necessity of peace. The rows of graves remind us that war brings only destruction, and only peace can save the world."

He added that groups of students often visit the site. Students from local universities, schools, and colleges come here to learn history and discuss war and peace.

"For young people, cemeteries like this serve as a living classroom. Here, they not only study history but also understand the essence of humanity," he remarked.

Locals note that the cemetery has now become one of Cumilla's major tourist attractions, drawing both domestic and international visitors every day.

They believe it helps showcase Cumilla's history to the world and contributes significantly to the development of the tourism industry. They also stressed the need for more government initiatives to highlight its importance.

Renowned educationist Principal Shafiqul Alam Helal observed, "Every grave in the Mainamati War Cemetery reminds the world of the horrors of World War II. From that terrifying chapter of mass loss of life, we must learn to lead the world on the path of peace. Diplomacy, dialogue, and mutual understanding are the only solutions to prevent the horrors of war."

In essence, the Mainamati War Cemetery is more than just a burial ground; it is a testimony of history. The horrors of World War II still echo silently here. No visitor leaves untouched; every heart feels the realization that the only way to save the world is through peace, compassion, and love.