Sunday, 5th April 2026
Khabor Wala Desk
Published: 22nd February 2026, 10:12 AM
The Bangladeshi community in France observed International Mother Language and Language Martyrs’ Day with solemnity, respect, and a spirit of reflection, as organised by the Bangladesh Citizens’ Council in France. The commemorative event took place at the historic Pansée Grill Restaurant in the Gare du Nord area, featuring an open discussion followed by an iftar gathering.
The programme commenced with prayers offered to the Almighty in memory of the Language Movement martyrs of 1952. Speakers highlighted the historical significance of the movement, which catalysed the recognition of Bengali as a state language, and underscored the ongoing responsibility of expatriate Bangladeshis to preserve and promote their mother tongue abroad.
The session was presided over by Abul Khayer Laskar, President of the Bangladesh Citizens’ Council, while Mohammad Ibrahim Bhuiya, the organisation’s General Secretary, served as the master of ceremonies.
The event drew notable figures from journalism, activism, and science, reflecting the diverse contributions of the Bangladeshi diaspora. Key attendees included:
| Name | Role / Background | Remarks / Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Mohammad Mahbub Hossain | Coordinator, France Bangladesh Journalists’ Association | Highlighted media’s role in promoting linguistic heritage |
| Imran Ahmed | Former General Secretary, Bangladesh Citizens’ Council | Reflected on diaspora engagement in cultural preservation |
| Mir Jahan | Online activist and former military officer | Emphasised youth mobilisation in language and culture advocacy |
| Monowar Hossain | Young thinker | Advocated for educational initiatives for Bengali language promotion |
| Tanvir Wadud | Human rights activist | Spoke on language rights as part of broader human rights discourse |
| Ikramul Kabir Salman | Space scientist | Stressed global relevance of cultural and linguistic identity |
| Shahidul Islam | Organiser | Coordinated programme logistics |
| Khan Khaled Mahmud, Saiful Islam, Arafat Rahman | Activists | Assisted in community outreach and participation |
Speakers reiterated that International Mother Language Day is not merely a day of emotional remembrance for Bengalis but a global symbol of linguistic diversity and cultural identity preservation. They called upon the younger generation to actively engage in the promotion of the Bengali language and the development of indigenous cultural practices, even while living abroad.
Attendees noted that the event demonstrated how the legacy of the Language Movement transcends borders, showing that love for the Bengali language and culture resonates throughout the global diaspora. The gathering concluded with heartfelt tributes and reflections, reinforcing a shared commitment to honour the sacrifices of the 1952 martyrs.
The evening’s iftar fostered camaraderie among participants, blending spiritual reflection with cultural pride, and served as a poignant reminder that the spirit of the Language Movement continues to inspire Bangladeshis worldwide.
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