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Central Shaheed Minar: A Symbol of Bengali Identity

A national monument in Dhaka, Bangladesh, honoring the martyrs of the 1952 Language Movement and a symbol of Bengali identity.

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The Central Shaheed Minar is a national monument in Dhaka, Bangladesh, commemorating those killed during the 1952 Bengali Language Movement. The monument symbolizes the struggle for linguistic and cultural identity and is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made for the Bengali language.

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 experience a more peaceful atmosphere.
  • Remove your shoes as a sign of respect when entering the monument area.
  • If visiting on February 21st (International Mother Language Day), expect large crowds.
  • Take time to read the inscriptions and plaques around the monument to understand its historical significance.
  • Explore the surrounding area, including Dhaka Medical College and the University of Dhaka, to immerse yourself in the local culture.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Central Shaheed Minar is located near Dhaka Medical College and the University of Dhaka, making it easily accessible on foot from these locations. From Dhaka Medical College, exit towards the main gate and walk along Secretariat Road. The monument will be visible within a short walk. From the University of Dhaka, head towards the Dhaka University area; the monument is adjacent to the Mathematics Department. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Dhaka has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and the Dhaka Metro. Several bus routes connect different areas of Dhaka to the monument. Check for buses heading towards Dhaka Medical College Hospital. From Shahbag, you can take a bus to Dhaka Medical College Hospital Bus stop. Bus fares typically range from BDT 10 to BDT 30 depending on the distance and type of bus. You can also use the Dhaka Metro to reach nearby stations, followed by a short rickshaw or taxi ride to the monument. A RAPID pass costs an initial payment of ৳400. A single ticket fare depends on the distance.

  • Taxi/CNG

    Taxis and CNG rickshaws are readily available throughout Dhaka and can be used to reach the Central Shaheed Minar. Negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey. From areas like Gulshan or Uttara, a taxi ride to the monument may cost between BDT 300 to BDT 500 or more depending on traffic and distance. CNG rickshaws are a cheaper alternative, with fares starting around BDT 100 and increasing with distance. Keep in mind that traffic congestion can significantly affect travel times and fares.

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Discover more about Central Shaheed Minar

The Central Shaheed Minar, or Martyrs' Monument, stands as a powerful symbol of Bengali nationalism and the struggle for linguistic and cultural identity. Located near Dhaka Medical College and Dhaka University, it commemorates the activists and students who lost their lives during the Bengali Language Movement in 1952. This movement arose from protests against the Pakistani government's decision to make Urdu the sole official language of East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), denying official status to Bengali, the mother tongue of the Bengali people. On February 21 and 22, 1952, peaceful demonstrations by students and activists demanding equal status for Bangla were met with gunfire by Pakistani police, resulting in numerous deaths. These events ignited widespread protests and unrest, ultimately leading to Bengali gaining official status in 1956. A makeshift monument was erected shortly after the massacre by students of Dhaka Medical College and other institutions but was soon demolished by Pakistani police. The current structure was designed by Bangladeshi sculptors Hamidur Rahman and Novera Ahmed. Construction was completed in 1963 but was destroyed during the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971. It was rebuilt after Bangladesh gained independence and expanded in 1983. The monument features a half-circular arrangement of columns, symbolizing the mother and her fallen sons, with a red sun shining behind. The 14-meter-high structure is made of marble stones, with white stairs and barriers creating a divine look. Inscriptions of poems by legendary poets are etched on the fences. Today, the Central Shaheed Minar is a site of national mourning and cultural activities, especially on February 21st (Ekushey February) or Martyr's Day, now also recognized as International Mother Language Day. Millions gather to pay tribute to the fallen heroes, and foreigners also offer floral wreaths. The monument stands as a reminder of the importance of preserving and promoting one's mother tongue and the ongoing struggle for justice, equality, and human rights.

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