India and Bangladesh jointly celebrate International Mother Tongue day

Agartala, Feb 24 (ANI): Keen to strengthen ties between India and Bangladesh, people of both nations gathered at zero point in Tripura to commemorate International Mother Tongue Day.

Hundreds of Indians and Bangladeshis participated in the International Mother Tongue Day festivities.

State functionaries, dignitaries, and several artists also participated in the event.

"We got together at the zero point to celebrate this festival together. It will promote brotherhood between people of both sides," said Pabitra Kar, member, Tripura Legislative Assembly.

Several cultural programs were performed at the event in which artists from both countries participated.

"Functions like these will strengthen cultural relations and diplomatic ties between both countries," said Obidul Muktadir Choudury, a Bangladesh lawmaker.

People also paid floral tribute to the martyrs of the Bangladesh Liberation war.

Information and Cultural Affairs (ICA) department of the Tripura Government along with socio-cultural organizations of both countries organized the programme to increase people-to-people contacts.

"For the first time I have seen such a programme and I believe it will further improve friendly relations between the two nations, which is good for everyone," said Saidul Karim, a Bangladeshi national.

"This is a fantastic effort to bring people of both nations closer and we hope that it takes place every year," said Sajia Afrin, an Indian citizen.

The International Mothers Tongue Day is celebrated to promote awareness of linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism. (ANI)