Top News Desk: Back in 1975, the Bengali nation suffered a great loss when they lost Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, who is hailed as one of the greatest fathers of the nation in a thousand years.
In another tragic incident on August 21, 2004, an attempt was made to assassinate the current Prime Minister and Awami League President, Sheikh Hasina, by throwing a grenade at her. Fortunately, she survived the attack.
This month holds deep emotional significance for the Bengali people, as they reflect on the past and cherish the resilience of their leaders and the nation.
On the tragic night of August 15, 1975, a devastating incident occurred, claiming the lives of prominent figures in Bangladesh. Former President, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, along with his wife, Bangamata Begum Fazilatunnessa Mujib, and their children, Sheikh Jamal, Sheikh Kamal, and Sheikh Russell, fell victim to a merciless assassination carried out by a group of assailants.
In this heinous act, the assassins showed no mercy as they cold-bloodedly killed Bangabandhu’s daughter-in-law, Rosi Jamal, and Sultana Kamal, compounding the profound loss suffered by the nation.
This heart-wrenching incident also left 24 people dead and more than 500 activists injured, including Ivy Rahman, the Awami League’s women’s affairs editor at that time and the wife of Zillur Rahman.
The nation was left in shock and mourning, as the country had lost its beloved leader, a symbol of hope and inspiration, and his entire family in a tragic event that scarred the history of Bangladesh forever.
In a horrific act that shook the world, 16 family members and relatives of Bangabandhu, including his brother Sheikh Nasser, sister-in-law Abdur Rob Serniabat, nephew youth leader Sheikh Fazlul Haque Moni, and his wife Arju Moni, along with Colonel Jamil, fell victim to a despicable and brutal murder.
The heinous attack, carried out by dangerous elements within the army, claimed the lives of these innocent individuals, leaving a profound sense of grief and anger reverberating across the globe. The untimely demise of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu, coupled with the loss of his beloved family members, has cast a dark cloud over humanity, and calls for justice echo throughout the international community.
In the aftermath of the tragic assassination of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, prominent figures have made polarizing statements about the Bengali people. These statements have ignited debates and discussions about the complexities of the situation.
Willy Branditt, a notable West German leader and Nobel Prize laureate, expressed concerns about trust towards Bengalis in the wake of Sheikh Mujib’s murder. He stated that the heinous act of assassinating the visionary leader raises questions about the actions some individuals may resort to.
Meanwhile, Nirad Shri Chowdhury, a British citizen of Indian origin and a renowned writer, referred to the Bengalis as ‘traitors’ due to the tragic event. He argued that the assassination of Sheikh Mujib has left an indelible mark on the Bengali nation, affecting how they are perceived by the global community.
These statements have sparked mixed reactions, with many highlighting the need to avoid generalizations about an entire population based on the actions of a few individuals. The untimely loss of Sheikh Mujib has undoubtedly been a great loss for Bangladesh and has led to a period of introspection and sorrow for the nation.
It is essential to approach such sensitive topics with empathy and understanding, recognizing the diverse perspectives and emotions involved in this deeply distressing event.
In the historic issue of The Times of London dated 16th August 1975, one thing became clear—Bangabandhu, also known as Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, would forever be etched in the memory of Bangladesh. The nation’s existence seemed inseparable from his towering presence.
As the somber news spread across the globe, The Daily Telegraph echoed the sentiments of millions in Bangladesh, who mourned the heinous assassination of their beloved leader. The loss was felt deeply, and the void left by his absence seemed irreparable.
Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s remarkable impact on Bangladesh’s history and people was undeniable. Even in the face of adversity and tragedy, his enduring legacy continued to shape the nation’s identity and inspire future generations.
Both newspapers’ messages reverberated around the world, highlighting the profound impact of Bangabandhu’s life and tragic demise, and reminding us of the profound influence a leader can have on a nation and its people.
Edited by: Shahnaj Safa
