The national anthem of a country is not just a piece of music but a symbol of its identity, history, and culture. The same is true for Bangladesh, where the Bangladesh National Anthem is a source of pride for its citizens. “Amar Shonar Bangla” or “My Golden Bengal” is the national anthem of Bangladesh. It was written by Rabindranath Tagore, the Nobel laureate, and was adopted as the national anthem of Bangladesh in 1971. In this article, we will delve into the history of the national anthem of Bangladesh, its lyrics and meaning, and the significance it holds for the people of Bangladesh.
History of Bangladesh National Anthem
“Amar Shonar Bangla” was written by Rabindranath Tagore in 1905 as a song of protest against the partition of Bengal by the British. The song was first performed at the Indian National Congress session in Kolkata in 1911. The song soon became popular as a symbol of Bengali identity and the struggle for freedom from British colonialism. In 1947, when India was divided into two countries, Pakistan and India, East Bengal became a part of Pakistan, and the song was adopted as the regional anthem of East Pakistan.
In 1971, East Pakistan declared its independence from Pakistan, and a bloody war ensued, resulting in the formation of Bangladesh. During this time, “Amar Shonar Bangla” was played as a symbol of unity and patriotism among the Bangladeshi freedom fighters. After Bangladesh gained its independence, “Amar Shonar Bangla” was officially adopted as the national anthem of Bangladesh on January 13, 1972.
Lyrics and Meaning of Bangladesh National Anthem
The lyrics of “Amar Shonar Bangla” are in Bengali, and it comprises ten lines. The song opens with the line “Amar Shonar Bangla, Ami Tomay Bhalobashi,” which translates to “My golden Bengal, I love you.” The song praises the natural beauty of Bengal, its rich culture and heritage, and the resilience of its people.
The song also reflects the pain and struggle of the Bengali people, who have been subject to oppression and exploitation by colonial powers. The lyrics express the hope and determination of the people of Bangladesh to build a better future for themselves and their children.
Bengali Lyrics
আমার সোনার বাংলা, আমি তোমায় ভালবাসি।
চিরদিন তোমার আকাশ, তোমার বাতাস, আমার প্রাণে বাজায় বাঁশি।
ও মা, ফাগুনে তোর আমলে, মগ্ধ হয় ও মা!
চিরদিন তোমার আকাশ, তোমার বাতাস, আমার প্রাণে বাজায় বাঁশি॥
ও মা, তোর হারে আমি মরেছি মাঠে মাঠে,
তোর জন্যই জীবন মরন, মরন তোর জন্যই।
চিরদিন তোমার আকাশ, তোমার বাতাস, আমার প্রাণে বাজায় বাঁশি।
Translation
My golden Bengal, I love you.
Forever your skies, your air set my heart in tune as if it were a flute.
Oh mother mine, the scent from your mango groves makes me wild with joy.
Oh mother mine, the winds from your palm-trees bring me dreams of tender love.
My life, my heart are all for you.
Significance of Bangladesh National Anthem
For the people of Bangladesh, the national anthem is a symbol of their national identity and pride. The song reflects the history, culture, and aspirations of the Bengali people. It reminds them of their struggle for independence and the sacrifices made by their forefathers.
The national anthem is played on important national occasions, such as Independence Day and Victory Day. It is also played before the start of important international sporting events, where Bangladeshi athletes are participating. The playing of the national anthem is a moment of pride and unity for the people of Bangladesh.
FAQs
Q1. Who wrote the national anthem of Bangladesh?
A1. The national anthem of Bangladesh was written by Rabindranath Tagore, the Nobel laureate.
Q2. When was the national anthem of Bangladesh adopted?
A2. The national anthem of Bangladesh was adopted on January 13, 1972.
Q3. What is the significance of the national anthem for the people of Bangladesh?
A3. The national anthem is a symbol of national identity and pride for the people of Bangladesh. It reflects the history, culture, and aspirations of the Bengali people.
Q4. How is the national anthem of Bangladesh played on important national occasions?
A4. The national anthem is played on important national occasions, such as Independence Day and Victory Day. It is also played before the start of important international sporting events, where Bangladeshi athletes are participating.
Q5. What is the significance of the lyrics of the national anthem of Bangladesh?
A5. The lyrics of the national anthem of Bangladesh reflect the natural beauty of Bengal, its rich culture and heritage, and the resilience of its people. They also express the pain and struggle of the Bengali people and their hope for a better future.
Conclusion
The national anthem of Bangladesh, “Amar Shonar Bangla,” is not just a piece of music but a symbol of the identity, history, and culture of the Bengali people. It reflects their struggle for freedom, their resilience, and their hope for a better future. For the people of Bangladesh, the national anthem is a moment of pride and unity, reminding them of their heritage and their shared aspirations. As such, it continues to inspire generations of Bangladeshis to come.
References
- “Amar Shonar Bangla.” Bangladesh Betar. Retrieved from https://www.betar.gov.bd/amar-shonar-bangla/
- “Amar Shonar Bangla – National Anthem of Bangladesh.” Cultural India. Retrieved from https://www.culturalindia.net/indian-music/national-anthem-of-india.html
- “National Anthem.” Bangladesh Government. Retrieved from https://bangladesh.gov.bd/national-anthem