Commemorating Language Martyr And Activist Gaziul Huq

Gaziul Huq remains an enduring figure in the history of the struggle to establish the status and dignity of the Bengali language. He was a writer, lyricist, lawyer, and an organizer of the Language Movement. Born Abu Nasr Mohammad Gaziul Huq, he was a vanguard whose activism articulated the demand for mother-tongue rights during the height of the linguistic movement in East Bengal.

Early Life, Family background, and Education

Gaziul Huq was born on 13 February 1929 in Nichinta village, located within the Chhagalnaiya police station jurisdiction of the Feni district. His father, Maulana Sirazul Huq, was an activist in the Congress and Khilafat movements, whilst his mother was Nurjahan Begum.

His early education commenced at a traditional Maktab. For his higher education, he attended Dhaka University, where he completed his Master’s degree. Whilst studying at the historic Government Azizul Haque College in Bogra, he worked under the close guidance of the linguist Dr Muhammad Shahidullah, an experience that influenced his political philosophy and social analysis.

Activism and the 1952 Language Movement

In 1950, when the State Language Action Committee (Rashtrabhasha Sangram Parishad) was established at Dhaka University to demand that Bengali be made a state language, Huq became an active participant. He operated alongside fellow activists under the leadership of Abdul Matin.

When the ruling authorities of Pakistan declared that Urdu would be the sole state language of the nation, widespread protests erupted across East Bengal. Huq became a central figure in student rallies, strikes, and mobilisations held at the historic Amtala (the mango tree grove) on the Dhaka University campus.

On 21 February 1952, the colonial administration imposed Section 144, legally prohibiting public gatherings and processions. Huq was among the student leaders who violated the ban to demonstrate for linguistic rights.

He also channelled the sentiments of the movement into music, penning the anthem:

“Bhulbona, bhulbona, bhulbona / Ei Ekushey February bhulbona”

(We shall not forget, we shall not forget, we shall not forget / This 21st of February we shall not forget)

This composition served as the primary anthem for the Prabhat Feri (early morning memorial processions) until 1955, preserving the memory of the language martyrs.

Legal Career and Literary Contributions

Professionally, Huq established a career in law. In 1957, he joined the Bogra Bar under the legal guidance of jurist Syed Nawab Ali. He continued his activism by participating in the 1962 Education Movement.

In 1963, he obtained his certificate to practice at the Dhaka High Court, and in 1972, he joined the Supreme Court of Bangladesh.

Alongside law and politics, Huq maintained a literary career. His published works reflected themes of patriotism, history, and human values. His bibliography includes:

• Jailer Kobita (Poems from Jail)

• Ekhane O Shekhane Ekti Kahini (A Story Here and There)

• Ebarer Sangram Swadhinar Sangram (This Struggle is the Struggle for Independence)

• Egiye Cholo (March Forward)

• Mohammed Sultan

• Bangladesh-er Ganamadhyam Ain (Mass Media Laws of Bangladesh)

In recognition of his institutional contributions to the nation, he was awarded the State Language Award, various commemorative plaques, and the Sher-e-Bangla National Prize.

Death and Legacy

Gaziul Huq passed away on 17 June 2009. His life, his musical compositions, and his advocacy for the Bengali language remain an inspiration for the nation, representing the generation that dedicated their lives to linguistic self-determination.

Key Biographical and Career Milestones