The 21st of February is a red-letter day in our national life. On this day in 1952, the brave sons of our motherland laid down their lives to protect the interest of our mother tongue. Since then we have been observing this day as ‘Shaheed Day! But in 1999, UNESCO declared this day as ‘International Mother Language Day. This declaration has turned a national celebration into an international event. With the declaration of the UNESCO, a new dimension has been added to the day. The teaching of the day is that we all should respect the mother languages of others. Our mother language is our unique possession. In the same way, other people’s mother languages are also priceless to them. In a broader sense, the day teaches us to have respect for other people’s rights. On this day the national flag flies at half-mast. Some rituals are performed. Early in the morning the President, Prime Minister, members of Parliament, staffs of diplomatic missions and others arrive at Central Shaheed Minar to place bouquets of flowers. Thus they pay tribute to those who gave their lives for Bangla. Throughout the day people visit the Shaheed Minar to show their respect to the martyrs. Everywhere the elegiac song. “Amar Bhayer Rakte Rangano Ekushey February” is sung. Discussions, meetings, cultural programs, etc. go on for remembering the language matters. The 21st of February has become an inspiration for us on our way of progress and prosperity.