Fact 1: The Land of Inland Water Bodies
Bangladesh is known for its vast network of rivers, canals, and marshes spanning over the entire country. It is home to 700 intriguing rivers flowing through it. The most famous among these is the Brahmaputra River, which is the 15th longest river in the world. This unique water body feature helps the country with enormous rainwater storage, fish farming and irrigation purposes.
Fact 2: The Humble Origins of the National Anthem
The national anthem of Bangladesh, known as ‘Amar Sonar Bangla’ or ‘My Golden Bengal', was first written as a poem by Rabindranath Tagore, a Nobel laureate, and a polymath from the Indian subcontinent. The poem was later set to music and adopted officially by the Bangladeshi government on the country's emergence as an independent nation-state in 1971.
Fact 3: National Animal
The Royal Bengal Tiger holds the title of being the national animal of Bangladesh. This subspecies of the tiger is found in the Sundarbans, the largest mangrove forest in the world which spreads across Bangladesh and India. The ferocious beauty of the Royal Bengal Tiger symbolizes strength and resilience, which is reflective of the Bangladeshi people.
Fact 4: Currency's Unique Name
The official currency of Bangladesh is known as 'Taka,' which, interestingly translates to 'currency' in English. The name ‘Taka’ originated from the Sanskrit term ‘Tank,’ which was a silver coin used in ancient Bengal. This distinct name sets the Bangladeshi currency apart.
Fact 5: The Victory Day
On December 16 ever year, Bangladesh celebrates ‘Victory Day,’ marking the end of the Bangladesh Liberation War and the country's official secession from Pakistan. This day is a national holiday and includes grand parades, concerts, and numerous other festivities across the country.
Fact 6: The World's Largest Human National Flag Formation
Bangladesh holds the record for the world's largest human national flag formation. On the Victory Day of 2013, nearly 27,117 volunteers gathered at the National Parade Ground in Dhaka to form the national flag, making the country's presence felt in the Guinness Book of World Records.
Fact 7: The Nationals' Love for Cricket
Cricket isn't just a sport; it is a cultural obsession in Bangladesh. The country's national team, the 'Bangladesh Tigers', regularly compete in international cricket tournaments, becoming a symbol of national pride. The country also hosted the ICC Cricket World Cup in 2011, further elevating its status.
Fact 8: The Largest Shopping Mall of South Asia
The largest shopping mall in South Asia, 'Jamuna Future Park', is located in Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh. This massive mall contains more than 260 shops, a multiplex movie theater, numerous food courts, a massive gaming zone, and so much more. The mall draws locals and tourists alike, evoking awe with its size and offerings.
Fact 9: The Gem of Old Architecture
The sixty-domed mosque, locally known as Shat Gombuj Moshjid, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and commands attention due to its antique and unique architecture. Built in the 15th century, this is one of the largest mosques from the Sultanate period and loved by people fond of ancient architectural wonders.
Fact 10: The Home of the Largest Sea Beach
Bangladesh boasts the world's longest unbroken sandy sea beach, Cox's Bazar, that stretches a whopping 120 kilometers. This beautiful beach is a popular tourist destination, providing opportunities for surfing, swimming, or just enjoying the scenic beauty.
Fact 11: The Land of Tea
Bangladesh is the world's 10th largest tea producer. The rolling hills and picturesque landscapes of Sylhet are dotted with tea gardens containing thousands of tea plants, contributing greatly to the country's economy.
Fact 12: The Story Behind the Language
Bangla, the national language of Bangladesh, is the seventh most spoken language in the world. The country celebrates 'International Mother Language Day' on February 21, in memory of the four students killed in 1952 while demonstrating for the recognition of Bangla as one of the two national languages of then, East Pakistan.
Fact 13: The Hell of a Traffic
Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, is infamous for its traffic congestion. According to a World Bank report, Dhaka city dwellers spend 3.2 million working hours each day stuck in traffic!
Fact 14: The Land that Literally Floats
In Bangladesh, farmers in the northeastern region have developed a unique method of cultivating crops. During monsoons, when fields get waterlogged, they create floating farms known as 'Baira' on the water surface using aquatic plants as a base.
Fact 15: Bangladeshis Consume the Most Hilsa
Hilsa, a variety of herring, is the national fish of Bangladesh. Hilsa's unique flavor and historical significance to the region have made it the centerpiece of Bangladeshi cuisine. So much so that almost 75% of global Hilsa production is consumed in Bangladesh.
Fact 16: Bangladesh's Contribution to Peacekeeping
Bangladesh is known worldwide for contributing the largest number of troops to international peacekeeping forces, a testament to its commitment to maintaining global peace and order. The Bangladeshi soldiers serve under the United Nations banner in various conflict-prone regions across the globe.
Fact 17: The Magic of its Fabric
The high-quality Muslin cloth, a staple in the fashion world, was originally a Bengali product in Dhaka, noted for its lightness and transparency. Its weightlessness and intricate artistry made it seem magical, appearing invisible under certain light and angles.
Fact 18: The Grandeur of the National Mosque
The Baitul Mukarram is the national mosque of Bangladesh. Its design is a blend of the magnificent Kaaba of Mecca and modern architecture. With an accommodation capacity of around 30,000 people, it is one of the world's 10 largest mosques.
Fact 19: The Glory of Pohela Boishakh
The first day of the Bengali calendar, known as Pohela Boishakh, is a significant celebration in Bangladesh. This grand cultural festival showcases various traditional activities and ends with fairs, dance, music, parades and feasts spread all around the country.
Fact 20: The Hospitality of the Locals
Bangladeshi people are known for their warm hospitality. Whether you are in Dhaka or a rural village, you'll be treated with utmost respect and hospitality. Generosity and kindness are ingrained in their cultural values, making any visitor feel welcomed and at home.