Bangla Name Desh by Ananda Bazar Patrika Sangkalan [Hardcover]

Through the collective efforts of contemporary renowned journalists, this book stands as an intimate chronicle of a persecuted nation's struggle for liberation, enriched with many unknown facts and illuminated by meticulous analysis.

The book begins with the backdrop of the movement, when the students of East Pakistan ignited the first flames of rebellion in the demand for language and cultural identity. It concludes with Mujib’s release, his return to Dhaka, and the euphoric sea of freedom-seeking masses at Ramna Maidan. In between, it covers the cultural, political, and economic history of the Ayub era, the post-election negotiations between Mujib and Yahya, the sudden midnight assault by the Pakistani military on March 25, the massive influx of refugees into India, the birth of the Mukti Bahini, India’s diplomatic efforts to rally international support for the oppressed nation, and ultimately, the Indo-Pak war.

Divided into eight chapters, the book also includes various side narratives—about the Qader Bahini, Mujib Bahini, the proclamation of Bangladesh’s sovereignty in Mujibnagar’s mango grove, the conspiracy to assassinate intellectuals, resignations at the Pakistani embassy, and Mujib’s family at the moment of liberation. In essence, this book is the 25-year-long, blood-soaked history of East Pakistan’s transformation into the independent state of Bangladesh.

Adding to its significance, the book is honored with forewords by two heads of state—Indira Gandhi and Sheikh Mujibur Rahman—who have spontaneously praised this bold and challenging endeavor. Undoubtedly, such a book is a pioneering initiative in our country. Beyond serving as a historical record of Bangladesh or a cultural bridge between the two Bengals, if this publication inspires a broader readership to engage with history more consciously and passionately, its purpose will be truly fulfilled.

Bankim Chandra once lamented that Bengalis lack a proper historical record. This thought resurfaces as we witness the people of the other Bengal (East Pakistan) defining themselves first as Bengalis, then as Muslims, while waging a struggle for self-determination amidst bloodshed. Before our very eyes and almost in the blink of an eye, they have carved out their own history in an unprecedented manner. Undoubtedly, this has been one of our greatest experiences of the century.

The question that first troubled our conscience was: Why shouldn’t such a monumental history have a documented account in the Bengali language? While seeking an answer, our initial thought was to create an album—a collection of significant photographs. Later, we decided to add brief descriptions to these images. However, deeper reflection led us to the idea of merging text with visuals, resulting in a structured format. The book was ultimately divided into eight sections, with the seventh focusing on the Indo-Pak war, further broken down into multiple sub-chapters. It details the war's strategic planning and provides a vivid day-by-day account of each battle.

The fourth section is dedicated to refugees. As per our initial plan, we emphasized photographs over text in this chapter. While examining the images, we realized that each picture speaks for itself, conveying an unspoken anguish that makes additional narration unnecessary.

With the foundational plan complete, we entrusted accomplished journalists with writing each section. Our capabilities may have been limited compared to our aspirations, but through constant effort, we have strived for a coherent and meaningful presentation.

If this book introduces a new style and perspective to Bengali publishing, that will be the ultimate fulfillment of our dedication and hard work.