This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about International Mother Language Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. International Mother Language Day is observed on February 21st.
Among the information you’ll find below: the history of International Mother Language Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as important facts you should know about International Mother Language Day.
📅 What day is International Mother Language Day 2024?
In 2024, International Mother Language Day is on Tuesday, February 21st. It is the 3rd Tuesday in February; in 2024, it is Wednesday. There are until the next observance. You also can view all fascinating details and facts about February 21, 2023, that you might not be aware of.
International Mother Language Day is celebrated annually on February 21st to honor the movement that began in East Pakistan, now known as Bangladesh, to preserve the Bangla language. This day serves as a reminder that there are numerous languages worldwide and emphasizes the importance of protecting their heritage and continued existence.
📜 International Mother Language Day History
The Bangladeshi people initiated a commemoration of International Mother Language Day, which takes place on February 21st. This day holds significance in Bangladesh as it marks the struggle for recognition of the Bangla language. The roots of this struggle can be traced back to 1947 when Pakistan was divided into East Pakistan and West Pakistan, each with its own distinct culture and language.
In 1948, Dhirendranath Datta of East Pakistan proposed that Bangla should be recognized as a national language alongside Urdu in the Pakistan Constituent Assembly. Numerous protests were organized to push for this recognition, but the Pakistani government responded by banning public gatherings and rallies in an attempt to suppress the protests. Despite this, students at the University of Dhaka and members of the public organized large marches and demonstrations, which were met with violence from the police.
Several years later, Rafiqul Islam’s suggestion was brought to the Bangladesh parliament after the country gained independence. The government of Bangladesh also officially proposed this idea to UNESCO. Finally, on November 17, 1999, during the 30th General Assembly of UNESCO, it was unanimously decided that February 21st would be recognized as International Mother Language Day worldwide, in honor of the martyrs who lost their lives on this day in 1952.
On this day, the people of Bangladesh pay their respects at the Shaheed Minar, a monument built to honor the martyrs, and similar replicas of it.
✅ International Mother Language Day Facts
🔖 Thousands of languages
There exist more than 7,000 languages that are currently being spoken across the globe.
🔖 Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea holds the record for having the highest number of languages globally, boasting a staggering 840 different languages.
🔖 Indian languages
Indian languages can be classified into four main groups, namely Afro-Asian, Dravidian, Indo-Aryan, and Sino-Tibetan.
👍 Why Is International Mother Language Day Important
The world is made up of hundreds of civilizations, each of which speaks a different language. The celebration of International Mother Language Day fosters cultural diversity. It helps individuals learn about the world’s different languages and gives a glimpse into other civilizations.
Knowing more than one language is usually beneficial. You never know when a second language will be useful. International Mother Language Day fosters multilingualism and the study of another language.
Languages are necessary for effective communication. Many languages are becoming extinct, yet we are unaware of their existence. This day sheds light on the world’s diverse languages and helps us learn about old languages.
🙂 How To Observe International Mother Language Day
⚡ Teach a language
Are you already fluent in multiple languages? You can utilize your skills by teaching a friend or family member a new language. Not only will this help you enhance your language proficiency, but it will also allow you to strengthen your knowledge and conversational skills.
⚡ Sign up for a language class
Celebrate International Mother Language Day by enrolling in a course to learn a foreign language. There is a wide range of languages to choose from, including Mandarin, Spanish, Hindi, and French. Prepare to be amazed by the multitude of language options available for study.
⚡ Speak in your native language
On International Mother Language Day, make an effort to exclusively communicate in your native language, especially with your family. Often, we find ourselves using a common language and forgetting basic words in our mother tongue. Today is the perfect opportunity to break that habit and embrace our roots.
📅 When is International Mother Language Day?
| YEAR | DATE | DAY |
| 2024 | February 21 | Wednesday |
| 2025 | February 21 | Friday |
| 2026 | February 21 | Saturday |
| 2027 | February 21 | Sunday |
| 2028 | February 21 | Monday |
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