Bangladesh introduces new banknotes, drops Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s portrait

In a historic and symbolic move, Bangladesh unveiled a new series of banknotes that notably exclude the portrait of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the nation’s founding father. This change marks a significant departure from decades of tradition and reflects broader political and cultural shifts currently underway in the country. The redesigned currency aims to represent a more diverse and inclusive narrative of Bangladesh’s rich heritage, moving beyond individual political figures to embrace national landmarks, culture, and history.

Background: Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s Symbolism on Currency

Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, often revered as “Bangabandhu” or “Friend of Bengal,” is a towering figure in Bangladesh’s history. As the leader of the country’s independence movement and its first president, his image has long symbolized national pride, unity, and the spirit of liberation. For decades, his portrait adorned the country’s currency, serving as a daily reminder of Bangladesh’s struggle for freedom and identity.

Since independence in 1971, the image of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman on banknotes was more than mere decoration—it was a symbol that united people under a shared narrative of liberation, resilience, and sovereignty. However, recent political changes have paved the way for reconsidering such symbols and the narratives they carry.

Political Context Behind the Change

The introduction of the new banknotes without Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s portrait comes in the aftermath of profound political upheaval in Bangladesh. In mid-2024, following a widespread student-led uprising against the long-standing government led by Sheikh Hasina—the daughter of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman—there was a regime change resulting in the formation of an interim government headed by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus.

This political transition brought with it a fresh perspective on national symbols, prompting a reevaluation of whose images and stories are represented in public life. Removing Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s portrait from the currency was part of a broader initiative by the new administration to shift away from personalized political symbolism towards a collective national identity reflecting the country’s cultural diversity and historical landmarks.

Features of the New Banknotes

The newly released banknotes, initially available in denominations of 20, 50, and 1000 taka, showcase a range of culturally significant imagery rather than political portraits. Key elements featured on the notes include:

• Cultural and Religious Heritage Sites: The banknotes highlight important religious landmarks, such as the Kantajew Temple, a masterpiece of terracotta architecture, and the Somapura Mahavihara, one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in South Asia. These sites underscore the religious and cultural plurality of Bangladesh.
• Historical Monuments: Instead of political leaders, the notes depict nationally important monuments like the National Martyrs’ Memorial, symbolizing the sacrifices made during the Liberation War, and the iconic Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban (National Parliament House), a masterpiece of modern architecture designed by Louis Kahn.
• Natural Wonders and Artistic Heritage: The Sundarbans mangrove forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the world’s largest tidal halophytic mangrove forest, features prominently, emphasizing environmental heritage. Additionally, artistic elements such as Zainul Abedin’s famous painting “The Struggle,” which portrays the resilience of the Bangladeshi people, adorn the new currency.
• Symbols of Political Change: Graffiti and other imagery related to the 2024 student protests are subtly incorporated, linking the currency to contemporary movements for political and social transformation.

By emphasizing these themes, the new notes strive to present a more multifaceted story of Bangladesh—one that embraces its historical struggles, religious diversity, cultural richness, and ecological significance without focusing solely on individual political figures.

Public and Political Reactions

The removal of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s portrait has elicited a wide range of responses across Bangladesh. Supporters of the new government and reformists see this as a necessary step toward modernizing national symbols and fostering a more inclusive identity. They argue that focusing on cultural landmarks and shared heritage rather than individuals can unite a diverse population and reflect the pluralistic nature of contemporary Bangladesh.

Conversely, many critics view this change as an erasure of an essential part of Bangladesh’s history. For them, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman is not merely a political figure but a founding father whose sacrifices and leadership remain central to the nation’s identity. They warn that removing his image from currency and other public spaces risks diminishing collective memory and disrespecting the legacy of the liberation movement.

This debate extends beyond currency design, touching on larger questions about how history is remembered, who gets to define national identity, and the role of political symbolism in public life. The interim government has also begun removing Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s portraits from government offices and school textbooks, further intensifying discussions on the evolving narrative of Bangladesh’s past and future.

Cultural and Social Implications

The redesigned banknotes are more than just pieces of currency—they represent a reimagining of national identity. By incorporating religious and cultural monuments, natural heritage, and contemporary symbols of political activism, the new design celebrates Bangladesh’s multifaceted society.

Bangladesh is home to a diverse population with various religious communities, ethnic groups, and cultural traditions. Highlighting landmarks from Hindu and Buddhist heritage alongside Islamic sites signals an effort to promote interfaith harmony and respect for minority communities. Furthermore, the inclusion of environmental icons like the Sundarbans also sends a message about the importance of conservation and sustainable development in the country’s future.

This move could foster greater pride in Bangladesh’s cultural and natural richness and encourage citizens to engage with their history beyond political leaders. It also reflects a global trend where nations seek to balance honoring historical figures with promoting inclusive, pluralistic national narratives.

Gradual Transition and Future Outlook

The new currency notes are being introduced gradually, circulated alongside older notes to allow time for public adaptation. Eventually, the redesigned notes will replace all denominations, standardizing this new visual language of national identity.

The government’s phased approach allows for feedback and adjustments, signaling an openness to public opinion despite the controversial nature of the change. It also underscores the practical challenges of overhauling a nation’s currency, from production to distribution and acceptance in daily transactions.

Looking ahead, the redesign may pave the way for broader reforms in how Bangladesh commemorates its history, such as revisions to educational curricula, public monuments, and cultural policies. Whether this shift will lead to greater national cohesion or deepen political divisions remains to be seen.

Conclusion

Bangladesh’s decision to remove Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s portrait from its currency notes is a bold and symbolic step that highlights the dynamic nature of national identity. While it breaks with tradition, the move reflects evolving political realities and a desire to craft a more inclusive and diverse representation of the country’s heritage.

The new banknotes tell a richer story—one that celebrates cultural landmarks, historical sacrifices, natural wonders, and contemporary social movements. As Bangladesh navigates its complex past and uncertain future, this currency redesign serves as a powerful symbol of transformation, inviting citizens to rethink what unites them beyond iconic faces and political legacies.