By TC News Desk
Agartala, 19th May 2025: Dharmanagar Vivekananda Swardha Satabarshiki Bhavan witnessed a vibrant celebration of ‘Matri Bhasha Saheed Diwas’ today at 11 am honoring linguistic heritage with cultural dignity. The event took place with its customary reverence, brought together distinguished figures including Tripura State Legislative Assembly Speaker Biswa Bandhu Sen, Deputy Director of ICA Department Ripon Chakma, Uttar Tripura Zilla Parishad Sabhadipati Arpana Nath, OSD of Education Department Kritisunder Dey and the Chairperson of Dharmanagar Municipal Council among others.
The gathering also saw participation from representatives of cultural organizations, schoolteachers, students, and guardians, reinforcing the communal spirit of the occasion. The event commenced with the inauguration by Speaker Sen followed by a solemn minute of silence in remembrance of the 11 martyrs of the 1961 Barak Valley language movement, who lost their lives while protesting for linguistic rights.
Tributes were paid through a series of artistic performances, beginning with an opening song by artists from the District ICA Department. A “Sit and Draw” competition held in the morning engaged around 55–60 young participants while an afternoon poetry recitation contest saw 27 students from various schools competing. The day concluded on an energetic note with 10 cultural groups of Dharmanagar delivering stirring dance and musical performances.
Addressing the audience, Speaker Sen emphasized the profound significance of linguistic identity, stating, “The greatest wealth of the world is the mother. There is no one in this world except the mother. Only those who do not have a mother know how deep this pain is. And the mother tongue means the motherly language—it is our duty to protect it.” He extended his encouragement to the young competitors, personally calling them onto the stage and expressing his heartfelt appreciation.
The event effectively highlighted the importance of preserving the mother tongue, the sacrifices of language martyrs and the rich cultural heritage ingrained in linguistic traditions. The emotional and meaningful gathering reflected Dharmanagar’s collective dedication to honoring and safeguarding its linguistic identity.
