DHAKA: A week long programmes to commemorate the Bengali Language movement will start at Bangladeshi American arts building at east Baltimore Pike in Clifton height in greater Philadelphia of USA on February 20 and end on February 27.

A week of Book fair, art exhibition, scholarly discussions and cultural events, children’s events and inauguration of the first ever Permanent Shaheed Minar in greater Philadelphia will be the highlights of the celebration.

International Center for Arts (formerly known as Bangladeshi American Art Gallery) is marking Amar Ekushey at their venue for the last four to five years in a very traditional way.

Many people and groups from greater Philadelphia participate and enjoy the event every year. The Shaheed Minar on the open air backyard also is keeping up the nostalgic tradition during the month.

International Center for Arts cordially invited all to attend the event and also bring floral homage individually or from organization. Admission is free.

The organizers also asked the visitors to bring published books, if anyone has, for sale or just to share with the community. Free parking also has been arranged by the courtesy of city of Clifton heights and Roman furniture.

The organizations are requested to register in advance for participation in floral homage.

The Programs include inauguration of Book fair by Muktodhara and Art exhibition (by famous Bengali artists including writer Purnendo patri of West Bengal) on February 20th.

Writer and activist Syed Tipu Sultan from NY also will display his books.

Opening ceremony of Permanent Shahid Minar will be held at 9PM-10PM.

Ekushey awards will be given on behalf of Bangladesh Association of Delaware valley to “Moder Patshala” (West Philadelphia), “Restructured Individual Student’s education” (Upper Darby), “Bangladesh American Community Youth Forum”, “Swarolipi Bengali Language and cultural Center” ( Upper Darby and Drexel Hill), South Jersey Bangla school, “Ankoor” Bangla school of Lansdale, “Bangla school” of Bensalem.

A Probhat Feri will be arranged at the wee hours of February 21 to pay homage to the language martyrs by placing flowers and floral wreath at the Shaheed Minar.

Other programs include songs by Shamsul Farid, a famous singer, South Jersey. Narayon Bose, a famous singer and disciple of Manna Dey, Mohona Bose (Child performer) of Philadelphia. Children’s Program by Swarolipi Bengali Language and cultural center, seminar on “How to support the US community and help Bangladesh.”

BDST: 1546 HRS, FEB 20, 2015