An assignment on

Our Liberation war of 1971

Course Title: History of the Emergence of Independent Bangladesh

Course Code: PHR-120

Submitted To
Modhurima Guha Neogi
Lecturer, Submitted by,
Department of Law and Human Rights Tonmoy Das
R. P. Shaha University ID No. 22100101
Batch:18th
Department of Pharmacy
R. P. Shaha University
Author Jahanara Imam

Translator Mustafizur Rahman

Cover artist Qayyum Chowdhury

Country Bangladesh

Language Bengali

Subject Memoir

Genre Non-fiction

Publisher Shandhani Prakashani and Charulipi

Prakashani
Publication February 1986
date

Pages 268 (Shandhani Prakashan) 311 (Charulipi

Prakashani) (Both differ)
 INTRODUCTION
Ekattorer Dingulee (Bengali: একাত্তত দিনগদল, English: The Days of 71) is
an autobiography by martyr-mother Jahanara Imam based on her experiences of
the liberation war of Bangladesh in 1971.
Jahanara Imam's son Shafi Imam Rumi, a student, fought the Pakistani army
in Dhaka and urban regions. This book describes Jahanara's daily life as well as a
description of the horrors associated with the Liberation War, including the deaths of
her son and husband during the conflict.
Jahanara's book describes her son Rumi as a brilliant student. He had planned to
go abroad to earn a degree in engineering, but the war broke out in March 1971 and
he became a volunteer for the "Mukti Bahini" (Freedom Fighters). During the war, he
was taken from his home in the middle of the night by Pakistani soldiers and never
returned.
Jahanara's husband Sharif Imam was a civil engineer. Sharif had a heart attack, but
the war created a blackout, and critical medical equipment could not be turned on.
As a result, he died.
Jahanara survived the war and Bangladesh achieved independence in December
1971. For the remainder of her life she lived with her surviving son. She received
many awards for her books and she created a committee later on to catch the
traitors during the war and hand them to the government.

Review

Historical Context and Significance

Ekattorer Dinguli provides aReview: comprehensive historical context to
the Bangladesh Liberation War, a pivotal chapter in the country's history.
The book elucidates the political, social, and economic conditions that led
to the conflict between East Pakistan and West Pakistan. Imam skillfully
captures the rising tensions, discriminatory policies, and the subsequent
desire for self-determination that propelled the people of Bangladesh
towards the path of liberation.
Imam delves into the historical backdrop of East Pakistan's formation
after the partition of India in 1947, under the governance of West Pakistan.
She explores the policies of marginalization, cultural suppression, and
economic exploitation imposed on East Pakistan, which led to widespread
discontent among its people. The book meticulously narrates the events
leading up to the declaration of independence on March 26, 1971, and
the subsequent brutal crackdown by the Pakistani army.
Personal Narratives:

One of the book's most powerful aspects is the inclusion of personal

narratives from individuals who experienced the war firsthand. Through
these intimate accounts, readers gain a profound understanding of the
human cost of the conflict. The stories of loss, resilience, and
determination serve as a poignant reminder of the indelible impact of war
on ordinary lives.
Imam's book features firsthand accounts from survivors, freedom fighters,
witnesses, and victims of the war. These personal narratives provide a
human face to the larger historical narrative, allowing readers to
empathize with the pain, suffering, and bravery of the individuals who
endured the atrocities. From tales of families torn apart to accounts of
torture and survival, each story reflects the immense sacrifices made
during those tumultuous times.
Themes Explored:

a. Resilience and Courage:

Ekattorer Dinguli beautifully captures the unwavering resilience and
courage of the Bangladeshi people in the face of unimaginable adversity.
The book portrays their determination to fight for their freedom,
showcasing acts of heroism and sacrifice that inspired a nation. The
stories depict ordinary individuals rising above their fears and contributing
to the larger struggle for independence. The unwavering spirit and
determination of the Bangladeshi people serve as a testament to the
indomitable human spirit.
b. Identity and Culture:
The preservation of language, culture, and identity is a recurring theme
throughout the book. Ekattorer Dinguli highlights the importance of
maintaining one's roots and the struggle to protect the cultural heritage of
Bangladesh during the war. It underscores the profound connection
between national identity and the fight for independence. The book
demonstrates how language, particularly the Bengali language, played a
crucial role in mobilizing the masses and uniting them against oppressive
forces. The preservation of cultural identity emerges as a powerful
weapon in the struggle for liberation.
c. Humanitarianism:
Amidst the brutality of war, Ekattorer Dinguli also emphasizes the
compassion and humanity that persisted. The book showcases instances
where people from different backgrounds came together to support and
protect each other, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos and
violence. These stories highlight the resilience of the human spirit,
illustrating that even in the
Themes Explored in Ekattorer Dinguli

Ekattorer Dinguli explores a wide range of themes that resonate deeply

with readers. It delves into the experiences of ordinary individuals who
faced unimaginable hardships, including loss, displacement, torture, and
violence. One of the prominent themes is courage. Throughout the book,
Jahanara Imam highlights the remarkable bravery displayed by
individuals who risked their lives to fight for the liberation of their nation.
Their unwavering determination and resilience in the face of adversity
serve as a testament to the human spirit.
Another vital theme explored in Ekattorer Dinguli is patriotism. The book
highlights the deep love and devotion the Bangladeshi people had for
their motherland. It portrays how this sentiment fueled their fight for
independence, motivating them to make great sacrifices for the
betterment of future generations.
The preservation of language, culture, and identity is another significant
theme in Ekattorer Dinguli. During the war, the Bangladeshi people fought

not only for political autonomy but also for the preservation of their unique
cultural heritage. The book emphasizes the importance of maintaining
one's roots and upholding national values, even in the face of annihilation.
Ekattorer Dinguli also explores the theme of humanity amidst the brutality
of war. Amidst the chaos and violence, there were instances of
compassion, where individuals from different backgrounds came together
to support and protect each other. These acts of humanity serve as a
powerful reminder that even in the darkest times, kindness and empathy
can prevail.
The Impact of Ekattorer Dingul
Ekattorer Dinguli has left an indelible mark on the collective memory of
Bangladesh. The book has become a cornerstone in documenting the
history of the Bangladesh Liberation War. By sharing personal narratives
and experiences, Jahanara Imam ensures that the sacrifices made by the
freedom fighters and the horrors endured by the people are remembered
and honored.
Moreover, Ekattorer Dinguli has played a significant role in shaping public
discourse and seeking justice for the crimes committed during the war. It
has sparked conversations about human rights violations, war crimes,
and the importance of accountability. The book has been instrumental in
creating awareness and demanding justice for the atrocities committed
against the Bangladeshi people.
The impact of Ekattorer Dinguli extends beyond literature. It has
influenced other forms of art, including cinema, theater, and visual arts.
Numerous adaptations and references to the book's content can be found
in Bangladeshi cultural productions. These artistic interpretations help
keep
 LIife story of Shafi Imam Rumi
Shafi Imam Rumi ( (29 March 1951 – 30 September 1971) was a guerilla
fighter of the Bangladesh Liberation War. He was the eldest son
of Jahanara Imam. In her memoir about the war, Ekatorer Dinguli, Rumi
was portrayed as the premier character. Rumi was murdered by the
Pakistani Army
Rumi was born on 29 March 1951 in the higher
middle-class family of Jahanara and Sharif Imam. He
started his education at a local kindergarten school
in Azimpur. Rumi passed his matriculation
from Adamjee Cantonment Public School &
College in 1968. He stood third in the Pakistan
Education Board. During his college days, Rumi
joined the University Officers Training Corps along
with his friends. He was later promoted to the rank of
Sergeant. By March 1971, he completed his H.S.C.
and got admitted in Engineering College[1] (currently BUET). He was also
enrolled into Illinois Institute of Technology but did not attend due to the
war.
Arrest by Pakistan Army and aftermath
After his operation he became an icon to his fellow warriors. He stayed
the night of 29 August 1971 to his house, the night when Pakistan Army
caught most of the guerrilla fighters based on their information from an
unknown source. His father, younger brother and a cousin were also
arrested with him by the Pakistan Army , led by a Captain
Quayyum.[7] They were first taken to the intersect of Mirpur
Road and Elephant road. There they were lined up in front of a military
jeep and intelligence officers identified each of them by
throwing headlights on the faces. Among all Rumi was separated and
took to a military vehicle while Sharif with other arrested family members
got in their family car. Sharif himself was driving and was accompanied by
two armed military personnel, was following the military convoy. Later
Rumi told to his father in detention that in that vehicle Rumi was
accompanied by almost all the freedom fighters he fought with days prior
to the arrest. However, from Elephant Road they were taken to Ramna
Police Station where a new series of identification took place. From there
the military convoy headed to Dhaka Cantonment, this time too Sharif
was driving as a part of the convoy though was one of the detainees. In
Dhaka Cantonment army tortured both Rumi and others seriously and
kept them in a small room somewhere near or inside a hostel in the
cantonment. There they were accompanied by many other victims of that
night including artist Altaf Mahmud, Abul Barak and Rumi's colleague
Azad, Jewel and others.[8] In that room Rumi explained to his brother
Jami that army already are fully aware of his operations and he and his
colleague Bodi took the full responsibly of the attacks. He advised Sharif
and Jami to give the same statements and to tell the army that the family
(of Rumi) were completely unaware of his activities.
Rumi's cousin, who was arrested with them, was freed on 2 September
1971 reportedly because he was able to show a bus ticket which
incidentally was in his pocket and proved him not be a permanent
resident of Rumi's residence. Sharif, Jami were cut loose two days later
on 4 September. They returned with harrowing tales of torture. Sharif,
exhausted from tiredness and injured from severe torture, drove his car to
his Elephant Road residence. Rumi with others of his co-fighters Bodi,
Jewel and others, were later never found, assumably became one of the
hundreds of thousands of people massacred by the military
junta.[9] Some sources claim that a number of arrested freedom fighters
were executed at midnight of 4 September and Rumi had been one of
them. Among the captured, Chullu, one of Rumi's valiant co-fighters, was
confined in the Central Jail of Dhaka, from where he was rescued by a
group of sector-2 freedom fighters after the allied forces occupied Dhaka
on 16 December.
As Rumi along with his co-fighters had been acting as the key
masterminds of Dhaka metropolitan oriented guerrilla warfare to that date
and among them almost all then staying in Dhaka were captured on days
around 29 August, the crackdown appeared as a temporary halt to Mukti
Bahini operations in Dhaka . Later, though the Sector 2 commander Maj.
Khaled Mosharraf had to largely curtail his Dhaka supplies because of
intensifying frontier conflicts, by the end of September the capital again
started being shaken by frequent guerrilla attacks on military units and
bombing on key locations, and this time it continued almost up to
the Pakistani surrender in December later that year.
As Yahya Khan was set to announce mass mercy on 5 September 1971
many family relatives instated to ask mercy petition for Rumi to the
government. Rumi's parents took the suggestion and thought over it but
later decided to not do so because they considered it to be a dishonor to
Rumi's views and ideology.
Rumi's father Engr. Sharif Imam underwent a massive heart-attack on 13
December 1971, was rushed to IPGMR (popularly known as PG hospital),
where he died at late night because the defibrillator couldn't be used due
to a blackout being carried out as an official Indo-Pak war had started a
week ago.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Ekattorer Dinguli holds immense historical and cultural
significance in Bangladesh. It stands as a testament to the unwavering
courage and resilience of the Bangladeshi people during the Liberation
War of 1971. Jahanara Imam's book not only provides a detailed account
of the atrocities committed but also serves as a source of inspiration for
future generations. By remembering and understanding the sacrifices
made during that period, we can honor the bravery of the freedom fighters
and ensure that the spirit of Ekattorer Dinguli lives on.
 Index

Page Topic
3-4 Introduction and Historical Context and
Significance
5 Themes Explored in Ekattorer Dinguli

6 The Impact of Ekattorer Dinguli

7-8 Life story of Shafi Imam Rumi

9 Conclusion