The National Martyrs' Memorial, known in Bengali as Jatiyo Sriti Shoudho, stands as one of the most significant national monuments in Bangladesh. Located in Savar, about 35 kilometers northwest of Dhaka, this towering structure is a lasting tribute to the brave souls who sacrificed their lives during the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971.

This war marked the end of Pakistani rule and the birth of an independent Bangladesh. Alongside the military struggle, it also commemorates the genocide and human rights atrocities that occurred during the conflict.

History of the Monument

The concept for the National Martyrs' Memorial was first proposed in 1976, just a few years after independence. In 1978, a national design competition was held to determine the architectural plan. Out of 57 submissions, the design by Syed Mainul Hossain was selected for its powerful symbolism and architectural depth.

Construction began shortly after, with the project being handled by the Concord Group, one of the leading construction companies in Bangladesh. The monument was completed in 1982 and has since become a key national landmark, drawing visitors from across the country and beyond.

Architectural Significance

The design of the National Martyrs' Memorial is deeply symbolic. It features seven pairs of triangular walls or prisms, each representing a major event in Bangladesh’s struggle for identity and independence:

1. 1952 Bengali Language Movement
2. 1954 United Front’s Provincial Election Victory
3. 1956 Constitution Movement
4. 1962 Education Movement
5. 1966 Six Point Movement
6. 1969 Mass Uprising
7. 1971 Liberation War

The outermost prisms are the shortest and widest, gradually narrowing and rising inward to a peak height of 150 feet (46 meters). This ascending pattern represents the rising spirit and resilience of the Bangladeshi people as they moved toward liberation.

The entire structure is surrounded by lush greenery and a carefully landscaped park, creating a tranquil and reflective environment for visitors.

Legacy and Cultural Impact

The National Martyrs' Memorial is more than just a structure; it is a living symbol of freedom and national pride. It stands not only as a remembrance of the past but also as a reminder of the values of sacrifice, unity, and independence.

Each year, particularly on March 26 (Independence Day) and December 16 (Victory Day), thousands visit the memorial to pay their respects. Government officials, war veterans, schoolchildren, and families come together to lay wreaths and honor the fallen.