Principal Abul Kashem holds a significant place in the annals of the Language Movement’s history. He spearheaded the establishment of Tamaddun Majlish, the pioneering organization behind the Language Movement, on September 1, 1947.
In a pivotal move on September 15, 1947, Principal Abul Kashem released the booklet “Rashtro Bhasha Bangla Na Urdu?” advocating for Bangla as the official language. He also laid the foundation for Weekly Sainik, the official publication of the Language Movement.
Today, we present translated excerpts from an interview featuring this iconic personality. The interview, sourced from Bhasha Andolon Shatchallish Thake Baana (1993), compiled by Mostafa Kamal, sheds light on the origins and endeavors of the Language Movement.
Principal Abul Kashem recalled the inception of the Language Movement through Tamaddun Majlish (TM) at 19, Azimpur, on September 1, 1947. Engaged in deep contemplation about Bangla as the state language and medium of instruction, he collaborated closely with Syed Nazrul Islam and Shamsul Alam in TM’s establishment.
TM embarked on various initiatives to raise awareness about Bangla as the state language. These efforts included hosting literary gatherings and seminars at venues like the university campus, specifically on the lawn near the south-west of the University of Dhaka and at the Muslim Hall auditorium. To garner public support, they disseminated statements and handbills. Principal Abul Kashem, as the editor, published the seminal book advocating for Bangla as the state language, emphasizing the language’s ability to unify the nation and facilitate communication for its citizens.
Reflecting on the reception of “Rashtro Bhasha Bangla Na Urdu?” among university students, Principal Abul Kashem lamented the lack of enthusiasm, attributing it to the overwhelming fervor surrounding the creation of Pakistan. Despite facing skepticism and resistance, they persisted in their advocacy efforts, engaging with government officials, intellectuals, and notable personalities to advance the cause.
The establishment of Sainik, a revolutionary weekly publication, marked a significant milestone on November 14, 1948. A dedicated team collaborated with Principal Abul Kashem to launch this influential newspaper as TM’s official mouthpiece, playing a pivotal role in shaping the Language Movement.
Following a crucial meeting at Fazlul Haq Hall in October 1947, TM members formed the Rashtrabhasha Sangram Parishad to address discriminatory practices against Bangla. The Parishad actively lobbied for Bangla as the state language, rallying support through petitions and memorandums to challenge the dominance of Urdu and English in official communications and education.
The Parishad’s advocacy efforts culminated in the historic March 11, 1948, movement, where a successful strike in Dhaka and across the region propelled the demand for Bangla as the state language to new heights. The movement faced police crackdowns and arrests, underscoring the intensity of the struggle for linguistic rights.
Principal Abul Kashem’s recollections offer valuable insights into the courage and determination that fueled the Language Movement’s quest for linguistic equality and recognition.
