New Delhi: Every year on February 21, International Mother Language Day is celebrated all over the world. The day promotes awareness about linguistic and cultural diversity and also about multilingualism. The day aims to promote the preservation and protection of all languages used by people of the world. Today, more and more languages are becoming obsolete, increasingly threatening linguistic diversity. In this article, we will learn more about International Mother Language Day.
In November 1999, UNESCO General Conference proclaimed International Mother Language Day. The idea to celebrate International Mother Language Day was Bangladesh’s initiative and the UN General Assembly welcomed the proclamation of the day in its resolution of 2002. As per UNESCO, it is important to have cultural and linguistic diversity for sustainable societies.
International Mother Language Day: What is it significance?
After the creation of Pakistan in 1947, the nation had two geographically separate parts: East Pakistan (today’s Bangladesh) and West Pakistan (today’s Pakistan). The two parts were very different from each other regarding language and culture, and were also separated by India in between. In 1948, the Pakistan government declared Urdu to be the country’s sole national language, a move which was opposed by the Bengali-speaking people of East Pakistan.
On February 21, 1952, police opened fire on student rallies of the University of Dhaka. It killed Abul Barkat, Abdus Salam, Abdul Jabbar, Shafiur Rahman and Rafiq Uddin Ahmed, and hundreds of others were injured. In history, this was a rare incident where people sacrificed their lives for their mother tongue.
Thanks to languages, multilingual and multicultural societies exist as languages enable transmission and preservation of traditional knowledge and cultures in a sustainable way. Languages ensure cultural diversity and intercultural dialogue, and also strengthens co-operation and attaining quality education for all. Hence, every year, International Mother Language Day is observed to promote linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism. Because when a language becomes obsolete, it fades along with the rich tapestry of cultural diversity.
International Mother Language Day: What is the theme this year?
The theme this year is Silver Jubilee Celebration of International Mother Language Day. This is the 25th anniversary of International Mother Language Day and it celebrates 25 years of efforts to promote mother tongues and preserve linguistic diversity. It highlights the need to preserve language to safeguard cultural heritage, improve education, and foster more peaceful societies.
International Mother Language Day, observed annually on February 21, celebrates linguistic and cultural diversity. Originating from Bangladesh’s initiative to honor the 1952 Bengali Language Movement, the day highlights the importance of language preservation for sustainable societies. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
