Two-day book fair to mark International Mother Language Day in Canada

A two-day book fair and cultural program was held in Saskatchewan, Canada, to mark International Mother Language Day. The fair featured books in Bengali by authors from various Canadian cities, including Saskatoon.

Organized by the Bangladeshi Community Association of Saskatchewan and Culture Connect TV, the two-day event on February 14 and 15 at the local Confederation Inn Hotel featured a children's painting competition, dancing, and singing by local artists.

The first day began with the national anthems of Bangladesh and Canada. After a speech by bKash President Arifur Rahman, the event was followed by speeches from Saskatoon Mayor Cynthia Block, MP Brad Redekop, MLA Don McBain, Councillor Robert Pearce and Councillor Senos Timon. 

Among other highlights of the second day's program, the special attraction was Himadri Roy's recitation, assisted by the renowned musician Ruptanu Sharma.

The organizers said that the Ekushey Shaheed Minar is a symbol of national unity and the fight against injustice, a place of pride, and the spirit of Bengali nationalism.

They said that it is not just a formality, but a real love for the mother tongue must be instilled and implemented in the new generation in daily life, only then will the souls of the martyrs find peace.