Ekushey February

Ekushey February also known as international mother language day. In 1999, UNESCO recognised February 21 as the International Mother Language Day.It has been observed every year on 21 February since the year 2000. In 1952, the brave sons of our motherland as we know Salam, Barkat, Rafique, Jabbar & lots of people in different agges laid down their lives to protect the interest of our mother tongue. Since then we have been observing this day as ‘Shaheed Day. 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 special song. “Amar Bhayer Rakte Rangano Ekushey February” is sung. Discussions, meetings, cultural programs, etc are  go on for remembering the language matters. The 21st of February has become an inspiration for us on our way of progress and prosperity.

After Bangladesh became independent, Ekushey February declared as a public holiday. On this day, radio, television and many cultural organizations organized various programs by highlighting the significance of Shahid Day. The country’s newspapers also publish special supplements.

 

Book Fair 2024

Book fair means a display or exhibit of many books by a group of publisher or bookdealers for promoting sales and stimulating interest. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has inaugurated the month-long Amar Ekushey Book Fair at the Bangla Academy premises .This year Bangla Academy is organizing the world's largest annual book fair on its and Suhrawardy Udyan's premises with the theme "Paro Boi, Garo Desh: Bangabandhur Bangladesh (Read Book, build country: Bangabandhu's Bangladesh) this year.

It will remain open for all from 3pm to 9pm on working days and 11am to 9pm on public holidays with a one-hour break for lunch and prayers. In Total  937 no of stalls have been allocated to 635 organizations in the book fair. The authorities have allotted 173 stalls to 120 organizations on the Bangla Academy ground and 764 stalls to 515 organizations at the Suhrawardy Udyan. A total of 37 pavilions have also been allocated this year. Last year, a total of 901 stalls were allocated in favour of 601 organisations. For children “Shishu Chattar” has also been set up in Sadhu Shanga area beside the Ramna Kali Temple. Book fair promote Bengali books, culture, and heritage to all. There are different kinds of books for all types & all ages people.

All security measures have been taken to ensure foolproof security for the fair with the deployment of a large number of law enforcement personnel including police and RAB. A watch tower and fire tender also were set up to monitor the situation around the fair venue. The fairground and its surrounding areas have been brought under the coverage of CCTV cameras and drone.