Thousands gather at Rajshahi Central Shaheed Minar today, paying solemn tribute to Language Movement martyrs. Photo :BSS

RAJSHAHI, Feb 21, 2026 (BSS) - Martyrs' Day and International Mother Language Day were observed in Rajshahi with due respect and solemnity as thousands thronged the Central Shaheed Minar in the first hour of Ekushey.

The Rajshahi district administration chalked out elaborate programmes to mark the day.

At 12:01am, as the clock struck the first hour of February 21, people began placing wreaths at the newly constructed Central Shaheed Minar, built on one acre of land at Sonadighi in the city.

Land Minister Mizanur Rahman Minu formally inaugurated the Shaheed Minar by placing floral tributes. Earlier, he planted a neem sapling on the Shaheed Minar premises.

Among others present were Shafiqul Haque Milon, MP, Divisional Commissioner Dr ANM Bazlur Rashid and Deputy Commissioner Afia Akhtar, along with other senior administrative officials.

From the night onward, a large crowd gathered at the newly built Shaheed Minar premises. People from all walks of life, including representatives of social and cultural organisations, political parties and their affiliated bodies, placed wreaths one after another to pay homage to the language martyrs.

Many visitors entered the premises barefoot and stood in silent remembrance of the martyrs' sacrifices. The entire area wore a solemn look marked by mourning, pride and dignity.

In the early hours of the day, the Paba upazila administration and various social and political organisations also paid tribute to the language martyrs.

Upazila Nirbahi Officer Arafat Aman Aziz first placed a wreath at the Central Shaheed Minar at 12:01am. Officials of different departments under the upazila parishad and heroic freedom fighters later joined him in offering homage.

Subsequently, representatives of political parties, social and cultural organisations and educational institutions placed floral wreaths at the Shaheed Minar to pay their respects.