Dhaka | June 2, 2025 — In a dramatic shift symbolizing political transformation, the image of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman—long regarded as the founding father of Bangladesh—has been removed from the country’s currency notes. On Sunday, the Bangladesh Bank unveiled a new series of banknotes, marking the end of an era that began in 1971, when Mujibur Rahman’s portrait first appeared on the nation’s currency following independence.
This move comes in the wake of major political upheaval. Last year, a coup ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Mujibur Rahman’s daughter, leading her to flee the country. In her place, Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus assumed leadership of an interim government. His tenure has been marred by widespread unrest, including the burning of prominent symbols associated with the previous regime.
From Personalities to National Symbols
The new currency series no longer features any political figures. Instead, the notes highlight national monuments and cultural heritage, including the National Martyrs’ Memorial, Hindu temples, Buddhist sites, and scenic natural landmarks across Bangladesh.
Arif Hossain Khan, spokesperson for Bangladesh Bank, said in a statement:
“The new notes represent a break from past traditions. They focus on Bangladesh’s beauty, heritage, and unity rather than individual personalities.”
This design shift was conceptualized by renowned Bangladeshi artist Zainul Abedin, whose artwork also reflects the 1943 Bengal famine, a defining moment in the region’s history.
A Politically Charged Currency History
Currency design changes in Bangladesh have historically mirrored the country’s political swings. After independence, the first batch of notes issued in 1972 featured Bangladesh’s map. These were later replaced with Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s image under the leadership of the Awami League.
When power changed hands and Khaleda Zia’s BNP took office, the focus of currency designs shifted to historical landmarks and cultural sites. This pattern repeated over the decades, turning the nation’s currency into a subtle but powerful instrument of political messaging.
Legacy of Mujibur Rahman Under Fire
Sheikh Mujibur Rahman led the 1971 Liberation War, which saw Bangladesh break free from Pakistan. He was assassinated in a 1975 military coup. His legacy had remained deeply entrenched in the country’s identity—until now.
The recent unrest saw his memorial in Dhanmondi torched, and Sheikh Hasina’s residence destroyed, signaling a forceful rejection of the Awami League’s influence by opponents.
Conclusion
The removal of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman from Bangladeshi currency may appear symbolic, but it signals a deep shift in the nation’s political landscape and identity narrative. With a neutral and heritage-focused design, the government aims to promote unity amid division—though critics argue it’s an attempt to erase history.
As Bangladesh continues to grapple with its political future, its banknotes now tell a new story—one no longer centered on a single leader, but on the diverse and multifaceted identity of the nation.
