Agartala, February 21: A spirited and colorful rally unfolded in Agartala today, commemorating International Mother Language Day. The event, jointly organized by the Education Department, the Information and Cultural Affairs Department, and the Bangladesh Assistant High Commission Office, drew participants from diverse backgrounds.
UNESCO designated February 21 as International Mother Language Day in 1999, emphasizing the significance of linguistic diversity. This year’s theme, “Multilingual Education: A Pillar of Intergenerational Learning,” resonated with the crowd.
The rally commenced at the Agartala Town Hall, where a vibrant procession of students, artists, dignitaries, and volunteers bedecked in traditional attire paraded through the city’s streets. Among the notable figures were Special Secretary Ravel Hemendra Kumar from the Education Department, Officer Nripendra Chandra Sharma from the Higher Education Department, and Assistant High Commissioner Arif Mohammad representing the Bangladesh Assistant High Commission in Agartala.
The colorful spectacle also featured participants from India and Bangladesh, including artists, litterateurs, and representatives from schools, colleges, and universities. Placards held high, they championed the cause of multilingual education.
The procession culminated at the Town Hall premises, where guests and dignitaries paid solemn floral tributes at the Shaheed Vedi, honoring the language martyrs who sacrificed their lives during the movement to protect the mother tongue in 1952.
In a brief interaction with reporters, Special Secretary Ravel Hemendra Kumar underscored the importance of commemorating this historic day. The state’s celebration serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and valor of those who stood up for linguistic rights.
The vibrant rally echoed the spirit of unity and reverence for language, bridging borders and generations in a harmonious tribute to linguistic heritage.