All Festivals in Bangladesh

Festivals have always played a significant role in the life of the people of Bangladesh. Those are parts and parcels of Bangalee culture and tradition. Brief account of the major and regular festivals are given below.

Pahela Baishakh

The advent of Bengali New Year is gaily observed throughout the country. The Day (mid-April) is a public holiday. Most colorful daylong gatherings along with arrangement of cultural program and traditional Panta at Ramna Park, Dhaka is a special feature of Pahela Baishakh. Tournaments, boat races etc. are held in cities and villages amidst great jubilation. Many fairs are held in Dhaka and other towns and villages.


Independence Day

March 26 is the day of Independence of Bangladesh. It is the biggest state festival. This day is most befittingly observed and the capital wears a festive look. It is a public holiday. The citizens of Dhaka wake up early in the morning with the booming of guns heralding the day. Citizens including government leaders and sociopolitical organizations and freedom fighters place floral wreaths at the National Martyrs Monument at Savar. Bangla Academy, Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy and other socio-cultural organizations hold cultural functions. At night the main public buildings are tastefully illuminated to give the capital city a dazzling look. Similar functions are arranged in other parts of the country.

21st Feb, the National Mourning Day and World Mother Language Day

21 February is observed throughout the country to pay respect and homage to the sacred souls of the martyrs' of Language Movement of 1952. Blood was shed on this day at the Central Shahid Minar (near Dhaka Medical College Hospital) area to establish Bangla as a state language of the then Pakistan. All subsequent movements including struggle for independence owe their origin to the historic language movement. The Shahid Minar (martyrs monument) is the symbol of sacrifice for Bangla, the mother tongue. The day is closed holiday. Mourning procedure begin in Dhaka at midnight with the song Amar vaier raktay rangano ekushay February (21st February, the day stained with my brothers' blood). Nationals pay homage to the martyrs by placing flora wreaths at the Shahid Minar. Very recently the day has been declared World Mother Language Day by UNESCO.

Eid-e-Miladunnabi

Eid-e-Miladunnabi is the birth and death day of Prophet Muhammad (s). He was born and died the same day on 12th Rabiul Awal (Lunar Month). The day is national holiday, national flag is flown atop public and private houses and special food is served in orphanages, hospitals and jails. At night important public buildings are illuminated and milad mahfils are held.

Eid-ul-Fitr

The biggest Muslim festival observed throughout the world. This is held on the day following the Ramadan or the month of fasting. In Dhaka big congregations are held at the National Eidgah and many mosques.

Eid-ul-Azha

Second biggest festival of the Muslims. It is held marking the Hajj in Mecca on the 10 th Zilhaj, the lunar month. Eid congregations are held throughout the country. Animals are sacrificed in reminiscence of Hazrat Ibrahim's (AM) preparedness for the supreme sacrifice of his beloved son to Allah. It is a public holiday.

Muharram

Muharram procession is a ceremonial mournful procession of Muslim community. A large procession is brought out from the Hussaini Dalan Imambara on 10th Muharram in memory of the tragic martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA) on this day at Karbala in Iraq. Same observations are made elsewhere in the country.

Durga Puja

Durga Puja, the biggest festival of the Hindu community continues for ten days, the last three days being culmination with the idol immersed in rivers. In Dhaka the big celebrations are held at Dhakeswari Temple, where a fair is also held and at the Ram Krishna Mission.

Christmas

Christmas, popularly called "Bara Din (Big Day)", is celebrated with pomp in Dhaka and elsewhere in the country. Several day-long large gatherings are held at St. Mary's Cathedral at Ramna, Portuguese Church at Tejgaon, Church of Bangladesh (Protestant) on Johnson Road and Bangladesh Baptist Sangha at Sadarghat Dhaka. Functions include illumination of churches, decorating Christmas tree and other Christian festivities.
Rabindra & Nazrul Jayanti

Birth anniversary of the noble laureate Rabindranath Tagore on 25 th Baishakh (May) and that of the National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam on 11th Jaystha (May) are observed throughout the country. Their death anniversaries are also marked in the same way. Big gatherings and song sessions organized by socio-cultural organizations are salient features of the observance of the days.

Tagore is the writer of our national anthem while National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam is famous as Rebel Poet.

There are various other festivals that are habitually observed by Bangalees all the year round

Festivals have always played a significant role in the life of the people of Bangladesh. Those are parts and parcels of Bangalee culture and tradition. Brief account of the major and regular festivals are given below.

Pahela Baishakh

The advent of Bengali New Year is gaily observed throughout the country. The Day (mid-April) is a public holiday. Most colorful daylong gatherings along with arrangement of cultural program and traditional Panta at Ramna Park, Dhaka is a special feature of Pahela Baishakh. Tournaments, boat races etc. are held in cities and villages amidst great jubilation. Many fairs are held in Dhaka and other towns and villages.

Independence Day

March 26 is the day of Independence of Bangladesh. It is the biggest state festival. This day is most befittingly observed and the capital wears a festive look. It is a public holiday. The citizens of Dhaka wake up early in the morning with the booming of guns heralding the day. Citizens including government leaders and sociopolitical organizations and freedom fighters place floral wreaths at the National Martyrs Monument at Savar. Bangla Academy, Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy and other socio-cultural organizations hold cultural functions. At night the main public buildings are tastefully illuminated to give the capital city a dazzling look. Similar functions are arranged in other parts of the country.

21st Feb, the National Mourning Day and World Mother Language Day

21 February is observed throughout the country to pay respect and homage to the sacred souls of the martyrs' of Language Movement of 1952. Blood was shed on this day at the Central Shahid Minar (near Dhaka Medical College Hospital) area to establish Bangla as a state language of the then Pakistan. All subsequent movements including struggle for independence owe their origin to the historic language movement. The Shahid Minar (martyrs monument) is the symbol of sacrifice for Bangla, the mother tongue. The day is closed holiday. Mourning procedure begin in Dhaka at midnight with the song Amar vaier raktay rangano ekushay February (21st February, the day stained with my brothers' blood). Nationals pay homage to the martyrs by placing flora wreaths at the Shahid Minar. Very recently the day has been declared World Mother Language Day by UNESCO.

Eid-e-Miladunnabi

Eid-e-Miladunnabi is the birth and death day of Prophet Muhammad (s). He was born and died the same day on 12th Rabiul Awal (Lunar Month). The day is national holiday, national flag is flown atop public and private houses and special food is served in orphanages, hospitals and jails. At night important public buildings are illuminated and milad mahfils are held.

Eid-ul-Fitr

The biggest Muslim festival observed throughout the world. This is held on the day following the Ramadan or the month of fasting. In Dhaka big congregations are held at the National Eidgah and many mosques.

Eid-ul-Azha

Second biggest festival of the Muslims. It is held marking the Hajj in Mecca on the 10 th Zilhaj, the lunar month. Eid congregations are held throughout the country. Animals are sacrificed in reminiscence of Hazrat Ibrahim's (AM) preparedness for the supreme sacrifice of his beloved son to Allah. It is a public holiday.

Muharram

Muharram procession is a ceremonial mournful procession of Muslim community. A large procession is brought out from the Hussaini Dalan Imambara on 10th Muharram in memory of the tragic martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA) on this day at Karbala in Iraq. Same observations are made elsewhere in the country.

Durga Puja

Durga Puja, the biggest festival of the Hindu community continues for ten days, the last three days being culmination with the idol immersed in rivers. In Dhaka the big celebrations are held at Dhakeswari Temple, where a fair is also held and at the Ram Krishna Mission.

Christmas

Christmas, popularly called "Bara Din (Big Day)", is celebrated with pomp in Dhaka and elsewhere in the country. Several day-long large gatherings are held at St. Mary's Cathedral at Ramna, Portuguese Church at Tejgaon, Church of Bangladesh (Protestant) on Johnson Road and Bangladesh Baptist Sangha at Sadarghat Dhaka. Functions include illumination of churches, decorating Christmas tree and other Christian festivities.

Rabindra & Nazrul Jayanti

Birth anniversary of the noble laureate Rabindranath Tagore on 25 th Baishakh (May) and that of the National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam on 11th Jaystha (May) are observed throughout the country. Their death anniversaries are also marked in the same way. Big gatherings and song sessions organized by socio-cultural organizations are salient features of the observance of the days.

Tagore is the writer of our national anthem while National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam is famous as Rebel Poet.

There are various other festivals that are habitually observed by Bangalees all the year round

Sundarban Travel Guide in Bangladesh

In the south-western part of Bangladesh, in the district of greater Khulna, lies the Sundarbans, the beautiful forest. It is a virgin forest which until recently owed nothing to human endeavour and yet nature has laid it out with as much care as a planned pleasure ground. For miles and miles, the lofty treetops form an unbroken canopy, while nearer the ground, works of high and ebb-tide marked on the soil and tree trunks and the many varieties of the natural mangrove forest have much to offer to an inquisitive visitor.

Here land and water meet in many novel fashions, Wildlife presents many a spectacle. No wonder, you may come across a Royal Bengal Tiger swimming across the streams or the crocodiles basking on the river banks. With the approach of the evening herds of deer make for the darking glades where boisterous monkeys shower Keora leaves from above for sumptuous meal for the former. For the botanist, the lover of nature, the poet and the painter this land provides a variety of wonder for which they all crave.

The Sundarbans is a cluster of islands with an approximate area of 6000 sq. km. forming the largest block of littoral forests. It's beauty lies in its unique natural surrounding. Thousands of meandering streams, creeks, rivers and estuaries have enhanced its charm. Sundarbans meaning beautiful forest is the natural habital of the world famous Royal Bengal Tiger, spotted deer, crocodiles, jungle fowl, wild boar, lizards, theses monkey and an innumerable variety of beautiful birds. Migratory flock of Siberian ducks flying over thousands of sail boats loaded with timber, golpatta (round-leaf), fuel wood, honey, shell and fish further add to the serene natural beauty of the Sundarbans.

This is indeed a land for the sportsmen, the anglers and the photographers with its abundance of game, big and small, crocodile, wild boar, deer, pythons, wild-birds and above all the Royal Bengal Tiger, cunning, ruthless and yet majestic and graceful, For the less adventurously inclined, there are ducks and snipes, herons and coots, yellow-lags and sandpipers. It is also the land for the ordinary holiday makers who desire to rest or wander around at will to refresh their mind and feast their eyes with the rich treasure that nature has so fondly bestowed.

General Information

AREA
Nearly 2400 sq. miles or 6000 sq. km.

FOREST LIMITS
North-Bagerhat, Khulna and Sathkira districts : South-Bay of Bengal; East-Baleswar (or Haringhata) river, Perojpur, Barisal district, and West-Raimangal and Hariabhanga rivers which partially form Bangladesh boundary with West Bengal in India.

MAIN ATTRACTIONS
Wildlife photography including photography of the famous Royal Bengal Tiger, wildlife viewing, boating inside the forest will call recordings, nature study, meeting fishermen, wood-cutters and honey-collectors, peace and tranquility in the wilderness, seeing the world's largest mangrove forest and the riverine beauty.

FAMOUS SPOTS
Hiron Point (Nilkamal) for tiger, deer, monkey, crocodiles, birds and natural beauty.

Katka for deer, tiger, crocodiles, varieties of birds and monkey, morning and evening symphony of wild fowls. Vast expanse of grassy meadows running from Katka to Kachikhali (Tiger Point) provide opportunities for wild tracking.

Tin Kona Island for tiger and deer.

Dublar Char (Island) for fishermen. It is a beautiful island where herds of spotted deer are often seen to graze.

Means of Communication
Water transport is the only means of communication for visiting the Sundarbans from Khulna or Mongla Port. Private motor launch, speed boats, country boats as well as mechanised vessel of Mongla Port Authority might be hired for the purpose. From Dhaka visitors may travel by air, road or rocket steamer to Khulna - the gateway to the Sundarbans. Most pleasant journey from Dhaka to Khulna is by Paddle Steamer, Rocket presenting a picturesque panorama of rural Bangladesh. Day and night-long coach services by road are also available. The quickest mode is by air from Dhaka to Jessore and then to Khulna by road.

Journey time
It varies depending on tides against or in favour in the river. Usually it takes 6 to 10 hours journey by motor vessel from Mongla to Hiron Point or Katka.

Accommodation Inside the forest

Hiron Point : Comfortable three-storied Rest-House of the Mongla Port Authority. Prior booking is to be made.

Katka : Forest Department Rest-House located here. Prior booking essential.

Journey by Rocket Steamer to Mongla and Khulna
Minimum Journey time is 22 Hours for Mongla and 24 Hours for Khulna from Dhaka.

Entry Permission
Prior permission must be obtained through written application from the Divisional Forest Office, Circuit House Road, Khulna (Phone 20665, 211731) to visit the Sundarbans. Required entrance fees for visitors, vessel or boat payable at the relevant forest station/range office.

Fee for Commercial Photography

Movie Tk. 5,000.00 per role exposed
Video Tk. 4,000.00 per Cassette
Still Tk. 1,000.00 per role exposed

Guided Tours
Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation, National Tourism Organization offers all-inclusive guided package fours from Dhaka to Sundarbans and return during the tourist season (October to March). Group size Minimum 12 pax.

For rates and booking please contact:
Manager (Tours), Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation, 233, Airport Road, Tejgaon, Dhaka-1212, Phone: 817855-59, Fax : 880-2-817235.

Climate
Climate in the Sundarbans is moderate. Air is humid. Full monsoon is from June to September. The annual rainfall average between 65" and 70". During ebb-tide the forest becomes bare by 6-7 feet and at high tide (30 miles and hour) the entire territory of the forest floats on water.

Life in Forest
Only means of transportation inside the forest is boat. There is no road, no trail of a path anywhere. The wood-cutters make temporary dwellings at the edge of the forest at a height of 8-10 feet for fear of wild animals others live on boats. In the chandpai region it is fascinating to see the nomadic fishermen (living with families on boats) catching fish with the help of trained offers. Exciting activities take place in Dublar Char in the forest where fishermen from Chittagong gather for four months (mid Oct. to mid Feb.) to catch and dry fish. But the most daring and exciting of all activities is presented by the honey-collectors who work in groups for just two months (April-May) and it is interesting to see how they locate a hive and then collect honey.

Flora and Fauna
The Sundarbans is endowed by nature with rich flora and fauna. It is a wonderful place to see or to shoot a Royal Bengal Tiger with Camera if one has the time to wait in the forest. There are a good number of tigers in the Sundarbans. Lovely spotted deer are easy to find. Besides there are a wide variety of wildlife for which the Sundarbans is so famous.

Visit to the Forest
Permission from the Division Forest Officer, Khulna is required to visit to the forest. Cholera vaccine is to be taken well in advance. Anti-malarial, anti-diarrhoeal, insectrepellent cream, drinking water, green coconuts, medical kit, light tropical dress, thick rubber soled boots etc. are to be carried with the tourist. It will be wise to take the help of an experienced guide to make the journey fruitful.

Khulna
Khulna is the third biggest industrial city of the country. It is a divisional headquarter which serves as a gateway to the seaport of mongla and the Sundarbans. Khulna is also famous for shrimp processing and newsprint.

Bagerhat
This little town is 40 km. south-east of khulna on the northern fringes of the Sundarbans. It is a district headquarters, Bagerhat is famous for Shait-gumbad mosque (60-domed) built in 1459 and shrine of the Muslim mystic Khan Jahan Ali.
Mongla
Mongla is the second seaport of the country and gateway to the Sundarbans. It lies 38 km. to the south of Khulna. The port authority has got motor launches to go to the forest.

Tourist season & Shooting
Best time to visit the Sundarbans is from November to March. Exciting honey collection season is during April-May. Hunting is prohibited by law in the country for the preservation of wildlife. Certain species of birds, however, can be shot with prior permission of the Divisional Forest Officer, Khulna, (Phone : 20665 & 21173).

Description of Political Philosophy of Bangladesh

Political philosophy is the study of fundamental questions about the state, government, politics, liberty, justice, property, rights, law and the enforcement of a legal code by authority: what they are, why (or even if) they are needed, what makes a government legitimate, what rights and freedoms it should protect and why, what form it should take and why, what the law is, and what duties citizens owe to a legitimate government, if any, and when it may be legitimately overthrown—if ever. In a vernacular sense, the term "political philosophy" often refers to a general view, or specific ethic, belief or attitude, about politics that does not necessarily belong to the technical discipline of philosophy.

Three central concerns of political philosophy have been the political economy by which property rights are defined and access to capital is regulated, the demands of justice in distribution and punishment, and the rules of truth and evidence that determine judgments in the law.

Bangladesh: A Poor Muslim Democracy

Bangladesh is an interesting puzzle. It is representative of the contemporary postmodern condition when nothing is clear-cut. It is at once both highly developed as well as underdeveloped. Bangladesh is a country that is economically backward and politically quite advanced. Many political and social scientists have often equated democracy with development and capitalism with political freedom. Bangladesh belies both these assumptions. It is a reasonably free society while being one of the world’s poorest economies. Even the Freedom House ratings, which are quite biased against non-Western societies in their measurements, rate Bangladesh as a reasonably free state.

In July of this year, the present government of the Awami League party with Sheikh Hasina Wajid as Prime Minister will complete one full electoral cycle. For a nation that has existed for only 30 years this is quite an achievement. In fact, if one were to compare the Bangladeshi democracy with the American democracy at the age of thirty, the nation of Bengalis will come out quite favorably. In 200 years, the US has yet to allow a woman to run the state.

Bangladesh has already had two women heads of state and the present head of the government, Sheikh Hasina, and the leader of the opposition party, Begum Zia, are both women. It is amazing that this country of a hundred million Muslims looks like a matriarchical society, belying another myth that associates patriarchy with Muslim culture. Bangladesh apparently is destined to destroy widely held myths. First by its very origins it has exploded the myth of Islamic unity. By breaking away from Pakistan, Bangladesh has shown that asabiyyah (Ibn Khaldun’s term for ethnic solidarity) can at times overwhelm Islamic unity. Perhaps the rupture of the united Pakistan is more a commentary on the lip service given to Islamic brotherhood by Muslim leaders than the relative powers of Islam and ethnicity. Nonetheless, the very existence of Bangladesh is a blow to the rhetoric of Islamic unity that most Muslims like to crow about. The present day Muslims of Bangladesh live in greater harmony with its 11% Hindu minority than they did with Muslims of non-Bengali origins.

Bangladesh is not the only case where interests other than Islamic unity have proven more powerful. The quick disintegration of the United Arab Republic, a union of Syria and Egypt that combined Islam, asabiyyah (Arab nationalism) and external threat (from Israel), is another case of Islamic entities splitting for interests other than Islam.

The second myth that Bangladesh has exposed is the claim by some Muslims and many westerners that Islam and democracy are incompatible. Bangladesh while not exactly an exemplary democracy or an advertisement for Islamic governance has nevertheless succeeded in demonstrating that a community dominated by Muslims can have Islam as the state religion and still provide democratic rights to its citizens and freedom of religion to its minorities.

Yes, there are cases of religious discrimination and harassment of minorities in Bangladesh. For example in 1992, when the Babri Masjid was destroyed in India by Hindu nationalists nearly 80 Hindu temples were desecrated in Bangladesh as an act of revenge. If what the Hindus did was a travesty, then what the Bangladeshi Muslims did was 80 times worse. Also in April, unknown miscreants blew a Roman Catholic Church. But these infrequent tragedies apart, Bangladesh is striving to be a good state that treats all its citizens justly.

Its constitution at least is determined to do justice to all. It recognizes the primacy of Islam (Article 2A) but guarantees the freedom of religion of all communities (Article 41). Article 11 of the constitution asserts that the Republic will be a democracy that respects all the human rights and freedoms of all its citizens. Article 39 specifically protects the freedom of speech and expression of every citizen (39a) and 39b guarantees the freedom of the press.

Cynics, especially those who neither understand nor respect democratic principles, maybe tempted to underestimate the importance of their constitution. However, the key is their implementation. In the era of globalization and global interdependence, having these rights enshrined in the constitution is an important first step. International pressure, especially from NGOs and human rights activists has a greater impact on states that already claim to respect these rights. Often moving court in cases of human rights violations provides effective remedy. But in states whose constitutions do not already enshrine human rights; states can continue to violate their own citizens with impunity leaving no recourse to domestic as well as international human rights activists.

As already discussed above Bangladeshis have also shown that Muslim societies allow women more opportunities for self-expression in the public arena than they are given credit for. Bangladeshi women are not only well integrated into the political arena but are also quite active in the economic sphere. The micro-enterprise project (Grameen Bank) initiated by Dr. Muhammad Yunus has shown that empowering women is an important strategy to fight poverty and underdevelopment. Bangladeshi women have shown that while remaining within the moral sphere of Islamic values, women can play an important role in the economic well being of their immediate families and the political well being of their nation.

Yes, indeed Bangladesh is a highly developed state in political terms. But sadly it exposes an American myth that prosperity follows freedom. Bangladesh is a “poor democracy”. Its per capita income is less than $500 a year. 36% of the population is below poverty level and nearly 35% of the population is unemployed. Annually a large section of the country is submerged in floods and as sea levels rise with global warming Bangladesh will face more drastic environmental threats with devastating economic implications.

Lack of industrialization, poor infrastructures, and untapped human resources will continue to challenge Bangladesh in its quest for economic well being. Poverty and disasters will continue to test the moral and political fiber of the nation. There are no shortcuts out of the environmental and economic troubles of Bangladesh. But we must remember that in spite of all its difficulties, Bangladeshis have found a way to live in freedom, respect each other’s dignity and remain connected with God.

Political Philosophy

Very roughly speaking, there are four main kinds of political philosophy around today.

Libertarianism (also called "classical liberalism" or just "liberalism"): emphasizes ‘negative’ rights, i.e. the right not to have certain things done to you (be killed, robbed, etc.). The role of government is to protect us from outside invaders and domestic criminals who would otherwise violate our rights, but otherwise to leave us alone. This is a somewhat old-fashioned view, associated with the 17th century John Locke and the 19th century John Stuart Mill, but it has recently made a big comeback, especially because of Robert Nozick’s book Anarchy, State, and Utopia, perhaps the ultimate philosophical argument for small government. Philosopher John Hospers has even run for President for the Libertarian Party. The libertarianism described here is a pure or extreme version which does not necessarily conform precisely to the views of real-life libertarians, who are likely to make some concessions to the objections listed below.

Objections: 1. Libertarians would allow anything between consenting adults, at least in private, including drug use, prostitution, hard-core pornography, sodomy, flag burning, etc. etc. Is this too much liberty?

2. Libertarians would not interfere with the economy at all, so they would allow monopolies, for instance, and would totally scrap welfare, Medicaid, Medicare, etc. Would this be good for society?

3. Libertarians regard society as just a mass of individuals in the same place under the same government, ignoring common traditions, culture, religion, etc. Does this ignore the value of patriotism, community, etc.?

4. In a libertarian society, some people would end up with much more wealth than others, perhaps just by inheriting it. Is this fair?

5. In reality libertarianism as an impartial ideal of maximum freedom and justice seems to be a kind of fantasy. We are all born into a world in which property is neither evenly distributed nor freely available. This situation came about through history, in which piracy, imperialism, genocide, slavery, etc. have all had an important part. No individual is free just to live their own life, since (for instance) there is no free land to farm. We all depend on others (especially if we are poor or handicapped by low social status, low intelligence, unpopular ethnicity, or disability, etc.). A government that adopts a completely laissez faire approach effectively sides with the pirates, slave-owners, etc. and their descendants.

Socialism: the exact opposite of libertarianism. Values ‘positive’ rights, such as the right to healthcare, food, shelter, work, etc., more than ‘negative’ rights. The economy would be run for the good of society as a whole. Very few people today are real socialists, but many agree with parts of this theory.

Objections: 1. Would this be efficient?

2. Is it fair to violate some people’s ‘negative’ rights to provide for the ‘positive’ rights of others?

3. Do so-called positive rights exist at all?

Liberalism (also called "modern liberalism"): a cross between libertarianism and socialism. Its most famous philosophical defender is John Rawls. Rawls equates justice with fairness. A fair distribution of rights and other goods, he says, is one that everyone would agree to from behind a veil of ignorance about their place in society. He calls this the original position. Rawls believes that in the original position people would support two fundamental principles of justice:

I. "Each person is to have an equal right to the most extensive basic liberty compatible with a similar liberty for others." [i.e. freedom and (negative) rights should be equal, and there should be as much freedom and opportunity as possible.]

II. "Social and economic inequalities are to be arranged so that they are both (a) reasonably expected to be to everyone's advantage, and (b) attached to positions and offices open to all." [i.e. all inequalities should be avoided if possible, unless they benefit everyone.]

In other words, he believes in the basic ideal of libertarianism BUT he also thinks people would prudently limit this, just in case they end up near the bottom of society, by adding some form of welfare. Inevitably some people will be worse off than others, but we should make them as well off as we can.

Objections: 1. Is the best way to decide what justice requires imagining what people would agree to in certain fictional, indeed impossible, circumstances?

2. Would such people in fact agree to precisely the combination of freedom and equality that Rawls comes up with?

3. Feminist philosopher Susan Moller Okin objects that Rawls says very little about gender issues. Women, though, must be included in any satisfactory theory of justice, she says. Current gender injustices seriously undermine equality of opportunity. Furthermore, the family is where we learn our basic values, so the family must be just if society is to be just.

Communitarianism: a new (although it can be traced back to Aristotle) alternative to liberalism and libertarianism. Some communitarians are just moderate socialists, but others are nationalists or patriots. Communitarians value tradition; ethnic, regional or national identity; and the common culture that comes from religion or shared moral values. They emphasize the importance of belonging to a certain community and sharing in its traditions, values and culture. They think that libertarians and liberals over-emphasize the importance of the individual and stress that "no man is an island" and "it takes a village to raise a child." Hegel can be thought of as a good example of this type of thinker.

Objections: 1. Even libertarians allow people the option of celebrating their heritage, culture, etc., but no-one should be forced to do so.

2. Emphasizing the community is often a cover for socialism or nationalism, which in turn lead to communism and fascism.

3. Communitarianism seems vague and more a reaction against libertarianism than a philosophy of its own.

A note on conservatism:

Conservatism generally means sticking to the old ways of doing or thinking about things. Conservatives tend to be skeptical about theories of the kind outlined above. Instead they value the wisdom inherent in tradition and whatever institutions have evolved or arisen to meet the demands of each particular culture. If something clearly needs to be changed, they would say, then by all means change it, but do so cautiously. And if it ain't broke, don't fix it just to fit the theory that some philosopher devised in his or her study. There is a similarity with communitarianism here, but in the USA the traditional political institutions, and the philosophical justifications given for them, embody rather libertarian ideals. The philosophical division of libertarian/liberal/communitarian does not neatly fit the ordinary division of liberal/conservative or Republican/Democrat. Basically almost everyone today is some kind of liberal, accepting some role for the state in providing goods such as education as well as protecting individual rights. Republicans tend to lean towards libertarianism, but most recognize that the theory has its flaws. That's why the Libertarian Party is its own organization. Democrats tend to lean more in the direction of socialism, but again most are really liberals, seeing that in practice pure socialism tends to produce inefficiency and misery. Contemporary "socialists" in Europe are not really socialists at all, on the whole.

Our Saint Martins Island

St. Martins Island is the most beautiful Coral Island where you will find live corals. Its only 30 km from Teknaf and you can go there by local motorboat, tourist boats, or sea truck.

This small coral island about 10km (6mi) southwest of the southern tip of the mainland is a tropical cliché, with beaches fringed with coconut palms and bountiful marine life. There's nothing more strenuous to do here than soak up the rays, but it's a clean and peaceful place without even a mosquito to disrupt your serenity.

It's possible to walk around the island in a day because it measures only 8 sq km (3 sq mi), shrinking to about 5 sq km (2 sq mi) during high tide. Most of island's 5500 inhabitants live primarily from fishing, and between October and April fisher people from neighboring areas bring their catch to the island's temporary wholesale market.

In this Island, you will find the beautiful Coral reef and long Coral beach and lots of coconut trees. The local name of the coconut is Narikel and the original name of this Island is Narikel Jinjira is derived from that. Accommodation in St. Martins Island is limited, so it is advisable to book accommodation before you plan to go to this Island. Motel Nijhum is one of the best hotels in St. Martins Island. To book in Motel Nijhum, confirm you reservation from Dhaka. You will hardly get a chance to stay in this hotel if you are a sudden visitor of St. Martins Island. The other good hotels are Prashad Paradise & Sraboni Bilash.

Booking of these hotels are also possible from Dhaka. All these three hotels are situated adjacent to Seashore. From these hotels lobby or veranda, you can enjoy the Sea. There are some other motels and hotels established in St. Martins Island.

Overnight staying in St. Martins Island is really an exotic feeling where you will feel and listen the sound of Sea. If you are lucky enough then you can spend the exotic moonlit night at St. Martins Island. The beauty of Full moon in St. Martins Island cannot be expressed, if you are not there at that time.

Cheera-dwip is a part of St. Martins Island but divided during tides. You can go to Cheera-dwip by walking. About two and a half hours walk from St. Martins Island or you can go there also by local motorboat or tourist boat. In that Island you will find the Corals - living and dead all over the Island. A small bush is there which in the only green part of Cheera-dwip, enhancing the beauty of this island. People do not live in this Island, so advisable for the tourists to go there early and come back by afternoon.

Nijhum Island

This Island could be the next prime tourist spot after St. Martins Island. It's a natural beauty of mangrove forests where you will find Dears of specific species and Monkeys. A huge numbers of migrated birds come in this Island in winter season, enhancing the beauty of this Island. The communication is not excellent but if some one wishes to bear the trouble to go to this Island, he will be enchant to see the beauty of this Island. You can go to this Island either from Dhaka or from Chittagong.

From Chittagong first you will to go Hatia Island by Motor boat or Ship and from there you can go to Nijhum Island by local motor boat. From Dhaka you can go Tomzuddion by launch from Sadarghat launch terminal. From there you can go to Nijhum Island by local motorboat.

Accommodation is very limited for the tourists in this Island. You can take foods from local restaurants but be careful about the quality of foods. If you can take prior permission for forest department then you can stay in forest rest house in Nijhum Island. Another possibility for accommodation is in District Parishod Guest house. If you take the permission from Thana administration (TNO) of Hatia you can also stay in the District Parishod Guest house. For the adventure seekers Nijhum Island could be one of the greatest experience of journey and it will be a memorable enjoyment to stay and pass some days in this isolated Island.

Cox's Bazar Travel Guide on online free

Area
- City 6.85 km² (2.6 sq mi)
Population (2007 est.) Total population represents population in city and metro represents entire district.
- City 51,918
- Density 7,579.27/km² (19,630.2/sq mi)
- Metro 120,480
Time zone BST (UTC+6)

Miles of golden sands, towering cliffs, surfing waves, rare conch shells, colorful pagodas, Buddhist temples and tribes, delightful sea foods - this is Cox's bazar, the tourist capital of Bangladesh. Having the world's longest (120 km.) beach slopping gently down to the blue waters of the Bay of Bengal, Cox's Bazar is one of the most attractive tourist spots in the country.

Located at a distance of 152 km. south of Chittagong, the leading seaport of Bangladesh, Cox's Bazar is connected both by air and road from Dhaka and Chittagong.

Adjacent to the Chittagong Hill Tracts , runs south down the coastline to the Myanmar border. The population of the region is about one million and is mix of Muslims, Hindus and Buddhists. The culture here is less overtly Muslim, or even Hindu for that matter, having a more Burmese-Buddhist atmosphere.

Visit to Cox's Bazar is for nothing but to enjoy holiday. Lots of attractions are there. Picnic spot at Himchari, Teknaf-southern most tip of Bangladesh - and nearby islands of Sonadia and Moheskhali are memorable experiences of a lifetime. The Cox's Bazar Holiday Complex of Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation, the National Tourism Organization is an ideal tourist resort having a number of facilities for the visitors.

The evergreen and semi-evergreen tropical rainforest bordering this stretch of beach is still some of the best in the country, despite the recent heavy pressure from the Rohingya refugees and others who have settled in the area.

Beaches

The main reason to come to Cox's Bazar is to visit the beach. This is the longest and shark-free beach in the world. Though a tourist town, Cox's Bazar has very little directed specifically to tourists. The Handicraft emporium at karupannya Cottage Industries at Motel road has a variety of excellent handicrafts. Saris, Lungis, Shawls and Kurtas are beautiful to buy and collect.

The colorful Buddhist Water Festival takes place from 13th to 18th April every year. To attract the tourist , The Government , in 1994, began construction of a road along the beach from Cox's Bazar to Teknaf. As of late 1995 it had reached beyond Himchari Beach.

The evergreen and semi-evergreen tropical rainforest bordering this stretch of beach is still some of the best in the country. Inani Beach is considered the world's longest and widest beach.It's 180m at the narrowest at high tide and 300m at low tide.Inani is some 30 km south of Cox's Bazar.

Himchari is the nicest beach near Cox's Bazar. Malumghat, an hour north of Cox's Bazar, is well known for the Baptist missionary hospital. Ramu, 14 km east of Cox's bazar, is noted for her Buddhist Khyangs.The interesting Burmese Bara Khyang, 50 km north-east in the Hill Tracts, in Lama Bazar has the country's largest bronze statue of Buddha.

Islands in Cox's Bazar

Sonadia, 4.63 sq.km, is noted for its bird life act as a temporary sanctuary for migrating birds-petrels, geese, curlews, snipe, shanks, lapwings, ducks and the waterfowl. Maheskhali, some 6 km north-west of Cox's Bazar, is a nice place for a daily trip. People are poor but friendly. St Martin's island is 8 km south-west of Badarmokam and 48 km from Teknaf.It's the only coral island in the country with no vehicles, one singal road, and genuinely friendly people. Named after a British provincial governor, and called Narikel Jinjira by the locals, the dumbell-shaped St.Martin's has an area of about 8 sq.km, which reduces to 5 sq.km. during the high tide and becomes four islnads-Jinjira, Galachira, Ciradia and Uttarpara.

Teknaf

Teknaf, a small town, is on the southern tip of the narrow strip of land adjoining Myanmar, 92 km south of Cox's bazar. The Naaf River forms the Bangladesh-Myanmar border here. The main reason to come to Teknaf is to visit St. martin's Island. Other possibilities include a walk west to Teknaf Beach and a ride south to Badar mokam at the tip of the peninsula. Particularly nice at sunset, the white sandy beach at Badar mokam is deserted.

The Prime Minister of Bangladesh and The Acting President

The Acting President and the Prime Minister of Bangladesh

"Your Excellency,

We have just learnt with deep shock of the dastardly attack launched against your country by the military junta of Pakistan on the afternoon of the 3 rd of December. This latest manifestation of Yahya Khan's reckless violation of international covenants is the final proof of his determination to subject the countries of this sub-continent to tensions, destruction and socio-economic ferment. The people of Bangladesh were conscious of the above inclinations of the Government of West Pakistan and they launched their struggle for freedom nearly nine months ago. We had sent communications to Your Excellency on the 15th of October and 23rd of November explaining the realities of the situation and our determination to fight the military junta of Pakistan till the complete defeat of the occupation forces is accomplished.

The aggression committed by Yahya and his Generals on your country makes it all the more necessary that the people of India and the people of Bangladesh stand shoulder to shoulder to repel the aggressors and fight for democracy and freedom and the values we cherish in common.Madam Prime Minister, we have the honour to inform you that in view of the direct aggression committed by Pakistan against your country on the 3rd of December, the freedom forces of Bangladesh are ready to fight the aggressive forces of Pakistan in Bangladesh in any sector or in any from. Out joint stand against military machinations of Pakistan would be further facilitated, if we enter into formal diplomatic relations with each other.

May we, therefore, repeal our request to Your Excellency that the Government of India to Your Excellency that the Government of India accord immediate recognition to our country and our Government. We should like to take this opportunity to assure Your Excellency that the Government and the people of Bangladesh stand solidly with you in this hour of peril and danger to both countries.

It is our earnest hope that our joint resistance to the nefarious plans and intentions of President Yahya Khan will he brought to a successful conclusion.We assure Your Excellency of our Government's full support in your just struggle against the aggressor.

Renewing Your Excellency, the assurances of our highest esteem.

Sd/-

Syed Nazrul Islam

Sd/-

Tajuddin Ahmad

On behalf of the freedom loving and struggling people of Bangladesh, the Prime Minister of Bangladesh conveyed the following message to the Prime Minister of India and to the Government and the friendly people of India:

"On behalf of the freedom loving and struggling people of Bangladesh, the Government of Bangladesh, as well as on our own behalf, may we convey to you and through you to the Government and the friendly people of India our deep sense of grateful appreciation not only for the act of recognition of our country but also for the kind sentiments and deep conviction expressed in your communications informing us of the decision of your country to recognize ours. We reciprocate your sentiments to the full and share fully your convictions. We can assure you that the bold and decisive action taken by you and your Government not only in recognizing our country but also in actively assisting us in achieving our liberation has had the deepest possible impression on our people.We have been flooded with reports about the great joy and enthusiasm with which your decision was welcomed by our people who have been suffering so long under the intolerable tyranny of Pakistan.

We have received eyewitness reports from all over Bangladesh testifying to the tumultuous welcome given to the friendly and assisting forces of India wherever they have gone, co-operating with and supporting our forces in our struggle for liberation. The response of our people has been so spontaneous and so spectacular that we feel compelled to ensure that their present agony and anguish are brought to an end at the earliest possible time. We, therefore, request you to accelerate your assistance to us so that the entire people of Bangladesh spearheaded by our fighting young man can crush the last remnant of Pakistan occupation and breathe the air of freedom very soon.'

'The message of the Prime Minster of Bangladesh to the Prime Minister of India and to the Government and the friendly people of India. The content of the letter is reproduced below on record for historical reason:

"Lip service was paid to the need for a political solution, but not a single worthwhile step was taken to bring this about. Instead, the rulers of West Pakistan went ahead holding farcical elections to seals, which had been arbitrarily declared vacant.There was not even a whisper that anyone from the outside world had tried to have contact with Mujibur Rahman. Our earnest plea that Sheikh Mujibur Rahman should be released, or that, even if he were to be kept under detention, contact with him night be established, was not considered practical on the ground that the U.S. could not urge policies, which might lead to the overthrow of President Yahya Khan. While the United Stated recognized that Mujib was a core factor in the situation and that unquestionably in the long run Pakistan must acquiesce in the direction of greater economy for East Pakistan,arguments were advanced to demonstrate- the fragility of the situation and of Yahya Khan's difficulty.

Mr. President, may I ask you in all sincerity: Was the release or even secret negotiations with a single human being, namely, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, more disastrous than the waging of a war?The fact of the matter is that the rulers of West Pakistan got away with the impression that they could do what they liked because no one, not even the United States, would choose to take a public position that while Pakistan's integrity was certainly sacrosanct, human rights, liberty, were no less so and that there was a necessary inter-connection between the inviolability of States and the contentment of their people.

Mr. President, despite the continued defiance by the rulers of Pakistan of the most elementary facts of life, we would still have tried our hardest to restrain the mounting pressure we had for nine months, and war could have been prevented, had the rulers of Pakistan not launched a massive attack on us by bombing our airfields in Amritsar, Pathankot, Srinagar, Avantipur, Uttarlai, Jodhpur, Ambala and Agra in the broad day light on December 3, 1971 at a time when I was away in Calcutta, my colleague the Defense Minister, was in Patna and was due to leave further to Ban galore in the South, and another senior colleague of mine, the Finance Minister, was in Bombay.

The fact that this initiative was taken at this particular time of our absence from then Capital showed perfidious intentions. In the lace of this, could we simply sit hack trusting that the rulers of Pakistan, or those who were advising them, had peaceful, constructive and reasonable intent?We are asked what we want. We seek nothing for ourselves. We do not want any territory of what was East Pakistan and now constitutes Bangla Desh. We do not want any territory of West Pakistan. We do want lasting peace with Pakistan. But will Pakistan give up its ceaseless and yet pointless agitation of the last 24 years over Kashmir? Are they willing to give up there hate campaign and posture of perpetual hostility towards India? How many times in the last 24 years have my father and I offered a pact of non-aggression to Pakistan? It is a matter of recorded history that each time such offer was made, Pakistan rejected it out of hand.We are deeply hurt by the innuendos and insinuations that it was we who have precipitated the crisis and have thwarted the emergence of solutions. I do not really know who is responsible for this calumny. During my visit to the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Austria and Belgium, the point I emphasised, publicity as well as privately, was the immediate need for a political settlement. We waited nine months for it.

When Dr. Kissinger came in August 1971, I had emphasised to him the importance of seeking an early political settlement. But we have not received, even to this day, the barest framework of a settlement, which would take into account the facts as they are and not as we imagine them to be.Be that as it may, it is my earnest and sincere hope that with all the knowledge and deep understanding of human affairs you, as President of United States and reflecting the will, the aspirations and idealism of the great American people, will at least let me know where precisely we have gone wrong before your representatives or spokesmen deal with us with such harshness of language. With regards and best wishes,

Yours sincerely,

INDIRA GANDHI"

In A year, Six Season in Bangladesh

Barsa (June to August) Rainy Season
In Bangladesh, which has both the world's largest delta system and the greatest flow of river water to the sea, water rules the earth, and so the most important season of all is barsa, a time of lashing rains and tearing winds. In this season, 70 percent of the land is under water – water from rivers, the sea, rain, tidal waves, floods and the melting snows of the Himalayas. The rains are at first a welcome relief from the baking, dusty hot season. But as the rains continue, the land turns into a brown and watery mass, ever-changing in shape and texture. Fields and homes are flooded; people and animals have to move to higher ground. Food is reduced to pre-cooked rice, dal and jackfruit that ripen at this time. During the rains, most villages are isolated, accessible only by boat. The people become self-sufficient and depend on each other rather than the outside world. The rain has turned stagnant water fresh again. Children leap naked into ponds. Women swim in sarees. Men dive in wearing sarongs. It is during the rainy season that Bangladesh's main crop, jute, begins to ripen and is harvested. Farmers dive down to the roots to cut them. The stalks are placed on high ground to dry. Aside from the practical problems, the rains and water also inspire the poetry, art and songs of the people.

Sarat (September to October) Autumn
As September begins, the skies are blue and a cool wind blows. The land turns into a carpet of bright green rice shoots while the smell of drying jute invades the air. Flowers bloom, the rice ripens and the harvest begins. Blue, gold and green are the colours of sarat – blue sky, golden sun and green vegetation from emerald to jade, pea to lime, shamrock to sea-green. In the green fields, white Siberian cranes, egrets and ducks hunt for food. Although the air is humid, there is a slight chill late at night.

Hemanto (October to November) Late autumn
Once the land has emerged from its watery grave, it is time to replant in new, fertile soil that is rich in nutrients. During this season, the land is at its luscious best. Festivals flourish to hail the harvest, the end of the floods, the coming of the new soil and the wonder of the rivers. The country's troubadours are everywhere, dressed in bright clothes and singing for money. The land and its people come to life during hemanto, when the flowers bloom – jasmine, water lily, rose, magnolia, hibiscus and bougainvillea. By the season's end, the air is no longer humid. Fresh scents replace the dry jute smell. Hemanto marks the start of the wedding season where receptions are held under red, blue, green or white tents.

Seet (November to December) Winter
From mid-November to early January, the weather becomes more arid and less humid. The earth dries and dust forms. Warm clothes are pulled out. Young people play tennis, football, cricket and golf. Seet is also the season when people return to their ancestral villages, where they can experience once again the essence of Bangladesh – the harmony of man, beast, land, water and air.

Basanto (December to February) Spring
The coolest days are from mid-December to February when the days are golden with light, the flowers are blooming and the nights and early mornings are chilly. Night guards wrap themselves up in shawls and blankets with scarves and hats pulled down over their ears. During basanto, the countryside hums with fairs, parades and commemorations. Arts festivals celebrate painting and handicrafts, poetry, music and drama. In Dhaka, basanto heralds the beginning of the social season with a frantic whirl of invitations to weddings, parties and dinners. Along with the cool weather comes the nation's silly season – politics. To a Bangladeshi, politics is what alcohol or sport is to other nations. Everyone gets involved.

Grisma (March to May) Summer
Throughout basanto, the weather warms up a bit each day until March 1, when the heat starts intensifying more rapidly. The soil turns a dusty khaki and then almost white. There are lightening and thunder storms and sometimes, icy lumps of hail crash down. The rivers dry out and are difficult to navigate. Grisma is also the peak time for the brick industry. Bricks are used for building and are a substitute for stone and gravel in Bangladesh. In the cities, the humid air is laden with dust, brick grit and auto fumes. The sun is a round red globe, beating down relentlessly. Everyone waits for the rains and the beginning of another cycle of seasons.

International Mother Language Day(1952)

21 February was proclaimed the International Mother Language Day by UNESCO on 17 November 1999. Its observance was also formally recognized by the United Nations General Assembly in its resolution establishing 2008 as the International Year of Languages.

International Mother Language Day originated as the international recognition of Language Movement Day, which has been commemorated in Bangladesh (formerly East Pakistan) since 1952, when a number of Bangladeshi university students were killed by the East Pakistan police and army in Dhaka.

International Mother Language Day is observed yearly by UNESCO member states and at its headquarters to promote linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism.

In August 1947, a new state called Pakistan, comprising two far-flung wings in the west and east, separated by 1600 kilometers of foreign territory, emerged on the world map. The ideological basis of that strange phenomenon was the absurd and pernicious two nation theory of Mr. Jinnah that ignored such basic elements as language and culture and considered religion as a bond strong and sufficient enough to transform a people into a nation.

The language of the people of eastern wing of Pakistan, and they were the majority, was Bangla. It had a rich tradition of literature of over a thousand years. The Bangalees also had a highly developed culture that had little in common with the culture of the people of western wing of Pakistan. The Bangalees' love for and attachment to their language and culture were great and when in 1952 the neo-colonial, power-hungry, arrogant rulers of Pakistan declared that ‘Urdu and Urdu alone would be the state language of Pakistan, they sowed the seed of its future disintegration.

The people of the then East Pakistan, particularly the students, rose in angry protest against the vicious undemocratic designs of the government. Those designs really amounted to the destruction of Bangla language and culture and imposition of the language and culture of the people of western wing on the people of eastern wing. The reaction was strong and spontaneous.

The government decided to quell protests by brute force. The police opened fire on 21st February 1952 on unarmed peaceful protesters, most of whom were students, resulting in the death, among others, of Rafiq, Barkat, Jabbar and Salam. As the news of those deaths spread, the entire people of the eastern wing felt greatly involved emotionally. Those who lost their lives to uphold the prestige defend the rights of their mother-language became hallowed martyrs.

Their sacrifice at once tragic glorious and the indignation of the people against an autocratic government had far reaching effect. 21st February became a symbol and attained mythic properties, it nourished the concepts of democracy and secularism. It also contributed significantly to the flowering of Bangalee nationalism. It led to the dawning of the realization in the minds of the Bangalees that they constituted a separate nation and their destiny lay not with Pakistan but elsewhere as an independent country. The subsequent democratic mass movements of the late fifties, throughout the sixties and the seventies, and finally the struggle for independence and the war of liberation owed a great deal to 21st February.

From 1953 onwards, starting from 21st February 1953, the immortal 21st February has been observed as a great national event all over Bangladesh, and also beyond the frontiers of Bangladesh: in several places of India, UK, USA, Canada and elsewhere, wherever there is a sizeable concentration of Bangla speaking people. Yet so long, it has been mainly a national event of Bangladesh. But with the declaration of 21st February as the International Mother Language Day, it has transcended the national borders of Bangladesh and acquired an international significance and a global dimension.

At the initiative of the United Nations and its various organs, a number of specific days have been declared over the years as international days for observance by the people of the whole world. All these days highlight some values, events and issues and are intended to generate a healthy awareness in the people of the world about them with the ultimate aim of making this world a better place to live in for the entire human population. Thus we have the international literacy day, international women's day. international children's day, the international day for eradication of racial discrimination, international day for ensuring pure drinking water, international habitat day, international day for preservation of environment and many others.

Some of these international days are linked with certain specific events that took place in some specific countries. While observing these days, the people of the world recall those events and those countries as a matter of course. The world is thus brought closer providing peoples of the world with the chance to get out of their insularity.

International Mother Language Day is particularly significant in the sense that it has a cultural importance. From now on, 21st February — so long observed in Bangladesh as the Bangla Language Martyrs' Day — will be observed here simultaneously as the Bangla Language Martyrs' Day and the International Mother Language Day. And in nearly 200 countries of the world, various peoples speaking various languages and belonging to various national cultures will observe 21st February as the International Mother Language Day. They will naturally celebrate their own mother languages, but while doing so, it is more than likely that they will refer to Bangladesh and the Language Movement launched by her people that reached a climactic point on 21st February 1952.

The declaration made by the UNESCO in November 1999 designating 21st February as the International Mother Language Day has placed Bangladesh on the cultural map of the world with a highly positive image. We, people of Bangladesh, should now do all that we can to further develop our mother language Bangla in all branches of knowledge so that it can play a worthy role in the community of world languages. We shall love, cherish and promote Bangla, our own mother language, But we shall not indulged in any kind of chauvinism.

While devotedly serving our own language, we shall respect the languages of all the peoples of the world make 21st February - The International Mother Language Day - a great day, to be observed worldwide in the new century and the millennium that we have recently stepped into. Long live 21st February the International Mother Language Day!

Preparation to resist the Pakistani soldiers...

Arrangement was going on to resist the Pakistani soldiers at Kasba, Brahmanbaria and Ashugonj. In order to resist the Pakistani forces, several strong defensive positions of the freedom fighters were built up at several places.

We were very busy at various places to resist the Pakistan forces namely, in the rails, roads and rivers of Narsingdi, Bhairab. Ashuganj etc., in the south Kasba-Gangasagar rail and by Road the Pakistani army from Comilla cantonment and in the north­west Pakistani army from Dhaka. The great excitement prevailed among the students and general people including the members of Bengal Regiment. At last the Pakistani forces started three front attacks. In the face of modern weapons of the enemies it became very difficult for us to East long. Possibilities of massive damages of lives and assets gradually began to increase. Therefore we had to retreat on radical grounds. The free areas of Brahrmanbaria and Akhuura fell down and came under the control of the Pakistan army. Again we prepared ourselves for fighting.

In guerilla tactics we began to inflict heavy damages on the lives and assets of the Pak armies one after another. After retreat we set up camp at Teliapara tea garden At last we had to abandon the camp also.In the midst of heavy firing that time crowd began to make slogans "Joy Bangla" from all sides. As if such sky touching lofty sounds trembled the sky and winds. The sound of Joy Bangta of 1971 was dear to all women, men and children. Facing the bayonets and Rifles the brave Bengalese sacrificed there lives smilingly uttering Joy Bangla. In India during anti-British movement, the slogan Bande Mataram was the only successful in creating such reaction.

That day we began to advance with the slogan "Joy Bangla" and whatever we had. Some body had Kutch, spears and somebody had bamboo stick. I also entered into the battle with one 303 rifle. We had not sufficient arms and ammunition. On the other hand the enemy had sufficient ammunitions and as a result they began to fire within some intervals. And sounds of Joy Bangla of the general people were coming from all sides.

Before the advent of dawn the sounds of firing were stopped from the enemy sides. Carefully we went to the camp from three sides, fly the blow of bullets the enemies retreated and fled away. Before retreating they blew up the go-downs of arms and ammunition. By capturing the camp we did not get any living body except some left out dead bodies of non-Bengali members of non-bengali members of East Pakistan Rifles and destroyed arms. The wall of the go down and its inner condition became disarrayed. But did Pakistani members of EPR lied away through open path by swimming the lake. We captured the camp and hoisted the flag of Independent Bangladesh. Later on we came to know that at the time of retreating the living soldiers of EPR killed some alive villagers in the streets by anger and excitement.

Preparation to resist the Pakistani soldiers at Kasba. Brahmanbaria and Ashuganj.
Arrangement was going on to resist the Pakistani soldiers at Kasba. Brahmanbaris and Ashuganj. In order to resist the Pakistani forces, several strong defensive positions of file freedom fighters were built up at several plates. We were very busy at various places to resist the Pakistan forces namely, in the rails, roads and rivets of Narsingdi. Bhairab. Ashuganj etc., in the south Kasba-Gangasagar rail and by Road the Pakistani army form comilla cantonment and in the north-west Pakistani array From Dhaka. The great excitement prevailed among the students and general people including the members of Bengal Regiment. At last the Pakistani forces started three from attacks. In the face of modern weapons of the enemies it became very difficult for us to last long. Possibilities of massive damages of lives and assets gradually began to increase. Therefore we had to retreat on tactical grounds. The free areas of Brahmanharia and Akhaura fell down and came under the control of me Pakistan army. Again we prepared ourselves for fighting. In guerilla tactics we began to inflict heavy damages on the lives and assets of the Puk armies one after another. After retreat we set up camp at Teliapara tea garden. At last we had to abandon that camp also.

Another declaration or Major Zia 1971...

Bui from date of 31st March, the independent Bangla Betar (Shadhin Bangla Beter Kendr) all along remained silent. But on 31.3.1971 we heard another declaration of Maj. Zia. The of the declaration is as under:

Declaration

Punjabis have used 3rd commando Battalion in Chittagang City Area lo subdue the Valiant freedom fighters of Sadhin Bangla. But they have been thrown back and many of them have been killed.

Punjabis have been extensively using F-80 Aircrafts to kill the Civilian strongholds and vital points, they are killing the civilians, men, women and children brutally. So far at least two thousands of Bengali civilians have been killed in Chittagong area alone.

The Sadhin Bangla Liberation Army is pushing the punjabi Army from one place to the other.At present the punjabis have utilized al least two Brigades of Army, Navy and Air Force. It is in fact of combined operation.

I once again request tbe United Nations and the Big powers to intervene and physically come to our aid. Delay will mean massacre of additional millions. SD/=Ziaur RahmanI tried to connect the foreign radio center. At night I got connection of All India Radio. I heard that in the proposal moved in the Parliament. Sreemati Indira Gandhi blamed for barbarous aggression of West Pakistani soldiers in Bangladesh and invited the people and the governments of all the countries of the world to create pressure for resisting Pakistani armed forces from mass killing. Unanimously accepted the proposal was as follows:

The Parliament expresses profound grief and deep concern about the recent events happening in East Bengal. The armed forces led from West Pakistan jumped upon the people of Ease Bengal to ruthlessly suppress the claims, hopes and aspiration of the latter by a massive aggression.

Instead of giving honour to the will of the people published undoubtedly in the general election held in Pakistan in 1970, the Pakistani Government decided to disobey the mandate of the people.

Pakistani Government not only refused to transfer the power to the peoples' representatives, but also prevented the National Parliament to perform the legitimate and sovereign I role without any legal basis. Adopting the naked power of armed forces, they used bayonet, machinegun, tank, cannon and fighter plane targeting the people of East Bengal.

The Government of India and Indian People always have tried to establish a peaceful, normal and friendly relationship will Pakistan and with this end in view have been working. Since the history, culture and hierarchal reciprocal ties of the people of this Sub-continent is very old, this assembly cannot sit idle at the terrific and awful tragic events happening near the border. The general people throughout the country expressed their undoubted resentment and hatred towards the unprecedented barbaric attitudes towards the innocent and armless people.The historical national awakening of seven and a half crore people of East Bengal will at last achieve success - this meeting records firm confidence in success on that matter. This meeting further ensures them to that effect that their struggle and dedication will always gain heartfelt sympathy and people of India."This decision of Indira Gandhi spread like electricity all around. We all got encouragement by heart and the news helped us greatly to erase our helplessness to a great extent. We got strength with this thinking that the great neighbour was with us.

I remembered about my tour in Agartala on 27" March. The Congress Secretary told that day that it was not possible on their part to supply arms without permission of Indian Government. We realized from this news of All India Radio that all out assistance of Indian Government was imminent. The liberation struggle of Bengali nation with Pakistan would continue and Insha Allah we would be successful.

Gradually the days were passing. A news reached Akhaura in the night of 12" April. The news was very important. Thai night a secret meeting was held with the top leaders of Awami League in Agartala circuit house. Though 1 could not get the decision of that meeting, but 1 was excited with joy with the holding of such meeting. Of course we tame to learn afterwards that the revolutionary Government was formed. Since Agartala was the border town, the tight secrecy was maintained about the meeting for the sake of security.

Possession of EPR Camp at Akhaura.
Agartala is the capital of Tippera State of India. Its frontier area is Akhaura. An important junction of East Pakistan Railway. Akhaura. Being adjacent to Tippera. is also heaven for the smugglers. There is a camp office of EPR ac Akhaura frontier. They controlled this region from here. Prior to beginning of battle, non-Bengali members of EPR took possession of the regional office at Akhaura. There were storage of huge arms and ammunition to defend the borders. Till then Akhaura was free and the borders were in control of the freedom fighters.We planned to free EPR camp. Therefore we formed a combined force comprising our Bengali members of EPR, Asnsar and Bengal Regiment. The local students and people were also linked with that force.

To avoid bloodshed, first we decided to invite the members of the EPR of the camp to surrender. Accordingly we sent a bold Bengali EPR Habilder with while flag at hand proposal for surrender. After one hour he returned and informed us that they would not surrender. Getting no alternative we prepared ourselves for attack. The EPR camp looked like an island. About in all sides around the camp there were low lands with water, canals and beels. There were an old building and some big tin go-downs. In the British period there were shed office of British jute company and jute godowns. From this side a branch of Titas river is flowing. By this naval route British and local merchants used to deal in jute business. During rainy season big size boats came and seaplane float on the river, which 1 saw many times in my childhood. But there was no such youthful charm of Akhaura now.

The seaplane of the company did not come and touch this branch river. As if the river also lost her youthfulness and became lean and thin. Akhaura was then somehow a small river port. Many godowns and office were established centering jute businesses. Two or three signs are still standing as evidence of that time.

Rolling afternoon the sun was selling in the west. We were gathering ourselves slowly from the three sides of the island with arms and ammunition. After crossing evening, the night became deeper, and before midnight we began attack upon the camp possessed by non-Bengali members of East Pakistan Rifles. The attack was started from three sides. The other side was entirely beel and vast crop field. Our heavy arms began to roar, Reply was also coming in double.

In the midst of heavy firing that time the crowd began to make slogans "Joy Bangla" from all sides. As if such sky touching lofty sounds trembled the shy and winds. The sound of Joy Bangla of 1971 was dear to al! women, men and children. Facing the bayonets and Rifles the brave Bengalese sacrificed their lives smilingly uttering Joy Bangla In India during anti-British movement, the slogan "Bandc Malaram" was the only successful in creating such reaction.That day we began to advance with the slogan "Joy Bangla" and whatever we had. Some body had Kulch, spears and somebody had bamboo stick. 1 also entered into the battle with one 303 rifle- We had not sufficient arms and ammunition. On the other hand the enemy had sufficient ammunitions and as a result they began to fire within some intervals. And sounds of Joy Bangla of the general people were coming from all sides.

Before the advent of dawn the sounds of firing were stopped from the enemy sides. Carefully we went to the camp from three sides. By the blow of bullets the enemies retreated and fled away. Before retreating they blew up the go-downs of arms and ammunition. By capturing the camp we did not get any living body except some left out dead bodies of non-Bengali members of East Pakistan Rifles and destroyed arms. The wall of the go-down and its inner condition became disarrayed. But the Pakistani members of EPR fled away through open path by swimming the take. We captured the camp and hoisted the flag Of Independent Bangladesh. Later on we came to know that at the time of retreating the living soldiers of EPR killed some alive villagers in the streets by anger and excitement.