Language is more than words—it is culture, identity, and a fundamental right. Every year on February 21, the world observes International Mother Language Day, honoring those who fought for linguistic freedom and emphasizing the importance of preserving languages for future generations.

The origins of this day trace back to 1952 Bangladesh, when students protested the imposition of a foreign language in education. Their peaceful resistance was met with violence, as police opened fire, killing several demonstrators. This tragic sacrifice sparked a movement, eventually leading to Bengali being reinstated as an official language in 1956. UNESCO recognized the significance of this fight, officially declaring International Mother Language Day in 1999 to promote linguistic diversity worldwide.

Today, this day serves as a reminder that language barriers can lead to inequality in education and opportunities. It encourages governments, educators, and individuals to preserve endangered languages and promote multicultural inclusivity. Observing this day can be as simple as learning about language martyrs, engaging in multilingual education, or even attempting to learn a new language.

As Nelson Mandela once said, "If you talk to a man in his language, that goes to his heart." Our mother tongue is more than speech—it is the soul of our identity.