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Central Shaheed Minar: A Symbol of Bengali Identity

A national monument in Dhaka commemorating the Bengali Language Movement, symbolizing sacrifice and cultural identity.

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The Central Shaheed Minar in Dhaka stands as a poignant national monument, commemorating the sacrifices made during the 1952 Bengali Language Movement. It represents the struggle for linguistic and cultural identity and is a powerful symbol of Bengali nationalism.

A brief summary to Central Shaheed Minar

  • Near Dhaka Medical College Gate, Secretariat Road, Secretariate Rd, Dhaka, Polashi, 1000, BD

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
  • Remove your shoes as a sign of respect when entering the immediate area surrounding the monument.
  • Consider visiting on February 21st (International Mother Language Day) to witness special commemorative events, but be prepared for large crowds.
  • Explore the nearby Dhaka University campus and Curzon Hall to gain further insight into the cultural and historical context of Bangladesh.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are near Dhaka Medical College or within the Dhaka University area, the Central Shaheed Minar is easily accessible on foot. Orient yourself towards the Dhaka Medical College Hospital; the monument is located adjacent to it. Follow the pathways leading towards the center of the university grounds, and you'll see the towering white structure. The walk from the Dhaka Medical College gate takes approximately 5-10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Take a local bus to Dhaka Medical College Hospital. From the bus stop, walk towards the Dhaka University area. The Central Shaheed Minar is a short walk from the hospital, approximately 5-10 minutes. Bus fares typically range from 10-50 BDT depending on the distance and type of bus. Keep an eye out for the monument's distinctive architecture.

  • Rickshaw

    Hire a rickshaw from nearby areas like Shahbag or Chankharpul. Negotiate the fare beforehand, typically around 20-50 BDT for a short ride to the Central Shaheed Minar. Direct the rickshaw-puller to Dhaka Medical College and the Dhaka University area; the monument is well-known.

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Discover more about Central Shaheed Minar

The Central Shaheed Minar, or Language Martyr's Monument, is a national monument in Dhaka, Bangladesh, that stands as a powerful reminder of the Bengali Language Movement of 1952. This movement arose from protests against the then Pakistani government's decision to make Urdu the sole official language in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh). On February 21, 1952, students and activists organized a peaceful demonstration in Dhaka, demanding Bangla be given equal status. Police opened fire on the protestors, killing several and sparking widespread unrest. The monument is near Dhaka Medical College and Dhaka University. Designed by Bangladeshi sculptors Hamidur Rahman and Novera Ahmed, its construction was completed in 1963. The monument was demolished during the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971 but was rebuilt after Bangladesh gained independence. The expanded design features a half-circular arrangement of columns symbolizing the mother and her fallen sons, with the red sun shining behind. The stairs and barriers are highlighted in white to create a divine look. Every year on February 21st, also recognized as International Mother Language Day since 2000, national mourning, cultural, and other activities center on the Shaheed Minar. Millions gather to pay tribute to the heroes who sacrificed their lives. The monument is not only a historical landmark but also a gathering point for various political and social movements, symbolizing the ongoing struggle for justice, equality, and human rights. Visitors are encouraged to maintain a respectful demeanor, often removing their shoes as a sign of respect.

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