Currency Notes
In a striking shift in Bangladesh’s national symbolism, the country’s central bank has officially released a new series of currency notes that no longer bear the image of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, widely known as the founding father of Bangladesh. The move signals a profound transformation in the nation’s political and historical narrative under the interim government.
The redesigned banknotes, which have been issued in denominations of 20, 50, and 1000 Taka, now feature natural landscapes and prominent historical landmarks instead of the iconic image of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
For decades, his portrait was prominently displayed on almost all currency notes as a symbol of national unity and reverence for his role in Bangladesh’s independence from Pakistan in 1971.
This shift follows the end of Sheikh Hasina Wajid’s 16-year tenure, which came to a dramatic close last year after widespread student-led protests against alleged autocratic rule. Sheikh Hasina, the daughter of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and leader of the Awami League, reportedly fled to India after her government was unseated.
Since then, the new interim administration, led by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus, has initiated a series of reforms aimed at distancing the state from the Awami League’s legacy.
The removal of Mujibur Rahman’s image from currency is part of a broader campaign to reshape the nation’s identity. The interim government has also abolished the public holiday commemorating his birthday, taken down his portraits from public offices, and revised school curricula to eliminate his exclusive designation as the “Father of the Nation.”
Additionally, the slogan “Joy Bangla,” once a powerful national rallying cry closely tied to Mujibur Rahman, has been stripped of its status as the official national slogan following a ruling by the Appellate Division.
Observers view these sweeping changes as a clear effort by the interim administration to redefine Bangladesh’s political culture. By moving away from the dominant narrative built around a single political dynasty, the government appears to be paving the way for a more pluralistic and depersonalised state identity.
While these actions have sparked controversy and debate within Bangladesh, they also reflect a moment of national introspection as the country reimagines its future beyond the shadow of its founding leaders.
