Dhaka, Feb. 21 -- Bangladesh on Friday observed Shaheed Day and International Mother Language Day with due respect and solemnity, as people from all walks of life paid tribute to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the recognition of Bangla as a state language.

From the first hour of February 21, people thronged Shaheed Minars across the country, placing floral wreaths and observing silence in memory of the language martyrs.

Programmes were held in district towns, educational institutions and public spaces in a dignified and emotional atmosphere.

On February 21, 1952, students and activists were killed when police opened fire on demonstrators demanding Bangla as a state language.

Among those martyred were Salam, Barkat, Rafiq a...