JU's Two Halls: Living Symbols of the 1952 Language Movement Martyrs’ Spirit

The immortal martyrs of the great Language Movement are eternally remembered through two residential halls at Jahangirnagar University (JU). Shahid Salam-Barkat Hall, established in 1984, and Shahid Rafiq-Jabbar Hall, established in 2010. These are not merely places for accommodation; they stand as living symbols of the Language Movement’s spirit, sacrifice, and the glorious history of Bangla-speaking people in this land. Every day, they inspire new generations.

The sacrifices of language martyrs Abdus Salam, Abul Barkat, Abdur Rafiq, and Abdul Jabbar in the 1952 Language Movement paved the way for establishing the dignity of the Bangla language. It is in memory of those sacrifices that the university authorities named these two halls. As a result, hundreds of students daily connect themselves anew with the history of the Language Movement through these names. This deepens their respect and commitment to preserving their own language.

The core mantra of the Language Movement lies in recognizing and accepting that every language has its own unique identity. The spirit of Salam-Barkat in the Language Movement teaches unwavering steadfastness toward one’s own language and acknowledgment of the individuality of every tongue. They proved that while blood can be shed from the body, the language taught by one’s mother can never be taken away.

Professor Abdul Halim, Provost of Shahid Salam-Barkat Hall, said: “This hall has been named in memory of the great martyrs of the Language Movement.” He noted that the sacrifices of language martyrs Abdus Salam and Abdul Barkat form an unforgettable chapter in the nation’s history, and naming the hall after them is a symbol of our deep respect and gratitude.

Professor Abdul Halim further said: “The memorial plaque installed at the main gate of the hall is not just a structure; it inspires the new generation to carry forward the spirit of the Language Movement.” Paying tribute to the martyrs of 21 February, he added: “The Language Movement ignited national consciousness and later paved the way for independence.”

He expressed hope that students of Shahid Salam-Barkat Hall will uphold the ideals of the martyrs, build themselves for the welfare of the country and nation, and ensure the memory of the martyrs remains ever-green in the Jahangirnagar University campus.

Dr. Abdus Sattar, Provost of Shahid Rafiq-Jabbar Hall, said: “International Mother Language Day is being celebrated with great dignity worldwide today, recognized by UNESCO.” He highlighted that Bangla is the only language for which people sacrificed their lives. It is because of the sacrifices of language martyrs Abdur Rafiq, Abdul Jabbar, Salam, Barkat, and all others that Bangla has secured its place of honor on the global stage.

He further said: “We should not limit ourselves to placing flowers at the Shaheed Minar in the first hour of 21 February. We should organize discussion sessions, seminars, milad mahfils, and doa mahfils in memory of the language martyrs. Through these, the new generation can learn more deeply about the martyrs’ sacrifices and show proper respect toward them.”

He added: “When floral tributes are offered at halls named after language martyrs, special honor can be considered for them. Additionally, inviting family members of the language martyrs to the university and national level and honoring them would set an important example of genuine respect for the martyrs.”

Professor Abdus Sattar expressed hope that through broader and more solemn programs in memory of the language martyrs, their spirit of sacrifice can be spread among the new generation.

The 1952 Language Movement was not limited only to the struggle for the Bangla language; it ultimately took the form of recognition for the living existence of all languages worldwide. The 1952 Language Movement liberated every unknown tongue on earth. To spread that spirit from generation to generation, like living monuments, Shahid Salam-Barkat Hall and Shahid Rafiq-Jabbar Hall stand proudly at Jahangirnagar University.