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Bangladesh to Remove Mujibur Rahman's Image from Currency

  • 06 Dec 2024 10:59 AM
  • Bangladesh, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, currency, political shift

In a significant political move, Bangladesh is set to remove Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's image from its currency notes, marking a dramatic shift in the country’s national identity. Known as the "Bangabandhu" or "Friend of Bangladesh," Rahman was the iconic founding father of the country. However, recent political developments, including the student-led protests and the rise of new leadership, have led to his image being gradually erased from public life, starting with the currency notes.

The central bank, Bangladesh Bank, confirmed that new notes, including Taka 20, 100, 500, and 1,000, will be released within six months, with Rahman’s image no longer featured. This decision follows months of political unrest and protests, and comes after the portrait of Rahman was removed from various government offices, including the office of Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel laureate and key figure in the interim government. Additionally, national holidays, such as August 15th, the day of Rahman’s assassination, have been canceled as part of a broader effort to move away from his legacy.

The new notes will include designs featuring Bengali traditions and religious structures, signaling a deeper cultural shift. As political tensions rise, the decision is seen as part of a broader effort to distance the country from its founding father’s image and establish a new identity under the current leadership.

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