It brought out a ‘Probhat Ferry’ (dawn procession), led by High Commissioner Muhammad Imran and his wife Zakia Hasnat Imran,

Officials and staff of the High Commission and their family members participated in it. The Ekushey elegy “Amar Bhaiyer Rakte Rangano Ekushey February” was sung as the parade went along the chancery premises, said a press release.

The newly-appointed high commissioner then led the mission in placing wreaths at the newly-installed Shaheed Minar (martyrs’ monument).

Cambodian Ambassador to India UNG Sean also took part in the procession and wreath placing ceremony.

In a brief speech, Imran remembered the supreme sacrifices made by the language heroes of 1952. He paid homage to Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman as well.

He said UNESCO declared Feb 21 as the International Mother Language Day in 1999 thanks to efforts made by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

“As we observe this historical day, it’s important for us to make our young generation conversant with our rich and proud history, our heroes, the culture and heritage,” he said.

The mission’s officers read out the messages from President Abdul Hamid, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shahriar Alam and State Minister for Culture KM Khalid.

The mission published an Ekushey souvenir in tribute to the language heroes highlighting significance of the day and the special role played by Bangabandhu in the Language Movement.

A panel discussion was also held.

The national flag was hoisted at half-mast. A special prayer was held seeking divine blessings for the language martyrs. A minute’s silence was observed in memory of the martyrs.