Editing Shaheed Minar

The '''Shaheed Minar''' is a national monument in '''Dhaka, Bangladesh''', built to commemorate the '''martyrs of the Bengali Language Movement''' of 1952. The monument symbolizes the struggle for '''linguistic and cultural rights''' and is a central site for observances on '''International Mother Language Day (21 February)'''.
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== History ==

* The original Shaheed Minar was constructed '''immediately after 21 February 1952''', following the killing of students who protested for the recognition of Bengali as a state language.
* The monument was '''destroyed in 1971''' during the Bangladesh Liberation War by the Pakistan Army.
* After Bangladesh gained independence, a '''new Shaheed Minar''' was constructed in '''1972–1973''', designed by '''architect Hamidur Rahman''' and symbolizing the resilience of the Bengali people.

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== Design ==

* The Shaheed Minar features '''vertical columns''' of varying heights representing the '''martyrs of the Language Movement'''.
* The central column is flanked by smaller columns, representing the '''unity and sacrifice of students and activists'''.
* Wreaths of flowers are placed at the base during annual commemorations, and it serves as a site for '''prayers, speeches, and cultural events'''.

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== Significance ==

* '''Cultural Symbol:''' Represents the struggle for '''linguistic and cultural identity''' in Bangladesh.
* '''National Observances:''' Serves as the focal point for '''Ekushey February''' ceremonies every 21 February.
* '''Educational Value:''' The monument is a site for students, historians, and visitors to learn about the '''Bengali Language Movement''' and the sacrifices made for language rights.

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== International Recognition ==

* The Shaheed Minar is closely associated with '''[[International Mother Language Day]]''', recognized by '''UNESCO in 1999''', emphasizing the protection and promotion of linguistic diversity worldwide.

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== Locations ==

* '''Dhaka Shaheed Minar:''' The most famous monument, located near Dhaka Medical College.
* Other cities in Bangladesh, including '''Chittagong, Sylhet, Rajshahi, and Comilla''', also have replicas of the Shaheed Minar.
* Educational institutions, both in Bangladesh and abroad, erect '''miniature Shaheed Minars''' for observances on 21 February.

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== Annual Observance ==

* '''21 February (Ekushey February):''' People gather at Shaheed Minar monuments across Bangladesh to lay '''floral wreaths''', observe moments of silence, and participate in cultural events.
* The day emphasizes '''linguistic pride, cultural heritage, and remembrance of the martyrs'''.

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== See Also ==

* '''[[Bengali Language Movement]]'''
* '''[[International Mother Language Day]]'''
* '''[[Bangladesh Liberation War]]'''
* '''[[Sheikh Mujibur Rahman]]'''
* '''Ekushey Book Fair'''