The daughter of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman has led Bangladesh to the realisation of the dream her father had cherished since the nation’s independence. Bangabandhu, the Father of the Nation, dedicated nearly two decades of his life to the struggle for liberation, driven by his vision of a hunger- and poverty-free Sonar Bangla (Golden Bengal).
Sheikh Hasina, the eldest daughter of Bangabandhu, was a witness to his long political struggle, the historic Liberation War of 1971, and the formative years of Bangladesh’s independence. However, the brutal assassination of her father and most of her family members on 15 August 1975 forced her into exile. Upon being elected leader of the Awami League in 1981, she returned to Bangladesh and began a challenging political journey marked by repeated threats to her life and numerous obstacles. Undeterred, she persevered and shaped the Bangladesh we see today.
Throughout her career, Sheikh Hasina has grown into a visionary stateswoman, driven by her dedication to democracy and her deep empathy for the people of Bangladesh. Her resilience and commitment to the philosophy and ideals of her father have enabled her to navigate the most difficult of paths. These reflections were elaborated upon in an article she authored for an international journal, published to mark the Golden Jubilee of Bangladesh’s independence.
In her article, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina identifies three critical phases in the journey toward building the modern, Digital Bangladesh:
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The struggle to realise and implement the ideals of Bangabandhu
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The strategic planning and relentless effort to meet the seven fundamental needs of the people
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The forward-looking vision to prepare the nation for a prosperous, modern future for the next generation
Entitled “Striving to Realise the Ideals of My Father”, her article opens with a poignant recollection of a personal moment with Bangabandhu. It offers an intimate glimpse into how he sought to instil values of humility and solidarity with the people—even within his own family—after becoming Prime Minister.
Recalling a moment from her youth, Sheikh Hasina writes how her father once rebuked her for wearing expensive attire. He asked,
“Are you going to wear those flashy, expensive saris and jewellery? Most people today can’t afford even a single meal—do you really want to flaunt your wealth? Please, wear something simple, something ordinary, so you can identify with the poor of this land.”
Those words have stayed with her ever since. She writes,
“I can never forget the words of my father—Sheikh Mujibur Rahman—whom people affectionately called Bangabandhu, or ‘Friend of Bengal’. It was not a lofty title, but a genuine expression of their love for him. From him, I learnt the value of empathy for the underprivileged and the importance of dreaming of a better future for all.”
Bangabandhu envisioned a new Sonar Bangla—a modern, inclusive, and democratic Bangladesh rooted in social justice and religious tolerance. His ideals became the guiding light of his political journey. Sheikh Hasina, inspired by her father’s example and advice, has consistently sought to uphold and implement those principles in building a modern, resilient, and digitally empowered nation.
Three Defining Qualities of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman
Sheikh Hasina reflects on her father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, describing him as a son of an ordinary Bengali family, much like countless others across the country. In speaking of his lifestyle and values, she highlighted three extraordinary qualities that, in her view, defined his character and leadership.
Firstly, Sheikh Mujib possessed a natural empathy that allowed him to connect deeply with people from all walks of life. His upbringing in a rural, economically modest farming community—though not impoverished—played a crucial role in shaping his understanding of the struggles faced by ordinary citizens.
Secondly, he was fearless in the face of oppression. Throughout his life, he displayed immense courage in resisting injustice and standing firm against authoritarian rule.
Thirdly, he had an exceptional ability to articulate the hopes, needs, and dreams of the people. He gave voice to the voiceless, and in doing so, earned the unwavering faith and trust of the masses. He was not simply a representative of the people—he became the very embodiment of their aspirations.
From the Language Movement to Independence
Following the Partition of 1947, the movement to protect the Bengali mother tongue began to take shape in 1948. At the time, a young Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was a law student at the University of Dhaka. Under his leadership, students mobilised to demand the recognition of Bangla as a state language—a cause that gradually spread across the region.
On 11 March 1948, Sheikh Mujib and several of his fellow organisers were arrested during a rally in support of the Bangla language. This was only the beginning of many arrests and episodes of persecution he would endure for his unwavering leadership in the language movement.
Over time, Sheikh Mujib’s popularity grew. The affection and confidence of the masses transformed him from a student leader into a national figure. Through nearly two decades of relentless struggle, he captured the hearts of people across the country, building the Awami League into a political platform representing every corner of society—across religions, castes, and professions.
For the first time, he united seven crore Bengali people, who had until then been divided by differing beliefs and socio-political affiliations. His leadership culminated in a landslide victory in the 1970 general elections, where the people overwhelmingly voted for the Awami League’s boat symbol and endorsed the Six-Point Programme advocated by Bangabandhu.
However, the Pakistani regime soon began conspiring against this democratic mandate. From the early days of the language movement, the fight for justice and autonomy gradually evolved into the ultimate struggle for independence—an arc that took less than twenty-five years to complete.
The pivotal moment came on 7 March 1971, when Sheikh Mujibur Rahman addressed a historic rally at Suhrawardy Udyan in Dhaka. His words reverberated through the hearts of millions:
“The struggle this time is the struggle for our emancipation. The struggle this time is the struggle for our independence.”
Following the brutal crackdown by the Pakistani military on the night of 25 March, and in response to the people’s irrepressible desire for freedom, Sheikh Mujib declared the independence of Bangladesh in the early hours of 26 March 1971.
This declaration ignited a nine-month-long liberation war. Finally, on 17 December 1971, Bangladesh emerged victorious as an independent and sovereign nation. The birth of this new state marked the realisation of a dream Bangabandhu had nurtured over two long, arduous decades—a free and just homeland for the Bengali people.
Bangabandhu’s Sacrifices: The Guiding Light for Bangladesh’s Journey
Throughout his political life, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman consistently chose the path of non-violence to achieve his goals. However, on the night of 25 March 1971, following the outbreak of genocide in Bangladesh, he was arrested by the Pakistani military and taken to West Pakistan, where he was held in solitary confinement.
Reflecting on this, Sheikh Hasina writes:
“In a secret military trial conducted within the prison premises, my father was sentenced to death. Execution seemed imminent—but before the sentence could be carried out, Bangladesh had won its independence.
Due to his frequent imprisonments, my siblings and I were often deprived of our father’s physical presence—but never of his unwavering love. Our mother stood beside him throughout his long political struggle, and she stood beside us too, ensuring that we received a proper education despite the circumstances. We missed our father dearly, yet his absences only deepened our commitment to the ideals he stood for.
We always knew the reason for his absence—it was for the greater cause of our nation’s freedom. His sacrifices inspired us to make our own.
Both our parents instilled in us a deep sense of patriotism. We shared our father’s profound love for the people and his steadfast dedication to the liberation of our homeland. Their guidance helped us hold on to hope for a better and brighter future.”
Overcoming Endless Obstacles: The First Steps Towards ‘Sonar Bangla’
Sheikh Hasina further recalls the defining moment of her father’s return:
“After Bangladesh achieved independence, the Pakistani military finally released my father. He returned triumphantly to Dhaka, where he was welcomed with overwhelming love and joy by the people of his newly liberated nation.”
Upon assuming leadership of the newly formed government, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman faced the enormous task of rebuilding a war-torn country. The challenges were vast and immediate:
- The national treasury was empty.
- Over ten million refugees who had taken shelter in India had begun returning home, necessitating urgent rehabilitation efforts.
- Roads, railways, bridges, and essential communication networks had been destroyed and needed reconstruction.
- Arms had to be collected from civilians who had taken up weapons during the Liberation War.
- Law and order needed restoration.
In addition, agriculture—severely disrupted during the conflict—had to be revived, and the supply of essential inputs ensured to resume crop production.
Amidst this chaos, Bangabandhu established a Planning Commission to develop a comprehensive national recovery strategy. One of his top priorities was drafting a Constitution that would truly reflect the hopes, sacrifices, and aspirations of the people who had fought for freedom.
Simultaneously, Sheikh Mujib embarked on an international diplomatic campaign to gain recognition for Bangladesh. Within a remarkably short time, he secured support from neighbouring and global powers alike. His charisma and clarity of vision earned him a place on the world stage as a respected statesman.
Heads of state visited Dhaka, and Sheikh Mujib was invited to capitals around the globe. One of the most memorable moments came on 25 September 1974, when he addressed the United Nations General Assembly in New York. His powerful speech made every Bangladeshi proud, announcing their nation’s presence on the world stage with dignity and conviction.
Through his leadership, Bangladesh earned global admiration—and the name ‘Bangabandhu’ became synonymous with hope, resilience, and pride.
The Tragic Chapter of 1975 and Sheikh Hasina’s Life in Exile
Reflecting on the tragedy of 1975, Sheikh Hasina writes:
“The enormity of that terrible day is something I have never fully come to terms with. At the time, my younger sister Rehana and I, along with my two children, were in Germany where my husband, Dr Wazed, was working as a nuclear scientist. During a brief visit to Belgium, in the early hours of 15 August 1975, I was abruptly woken by the sharp ringing of the telephone.
Our host answered, but did not want to speak to me—only to my husband, who stood close by. He then turned to me and said simply that there had been a coup in Bangladesh. Yet, by looking at his face, I knew something catastrophic had happened to my family in Dhaka.
I was stunned beyond words; the first thing I uttered was, ‘If there has been a coup, then I have lost everyone.’
After reaching Ambassador Humayun Rashid Chowdhury’s residence in Bonn, we received the devastating news: my father, my mother, my newly married brothers and their wives, and even my youngest brother Russel, had all been killed. It pains me deeply to list the 18 members of my close-knit family who perished that day.”
Following the coup, the usurpers refused to allow Sheikh Hasina and her sister to return to Bangladesh. Alongside her two infant children, she endured nearly six years of harsh exile. Forced to live as refugees, they were constantly on the move, haunted by the fear of being tracked down and eliminated by the assassins.
Return of Bangabandhu’s Daughter Amid Grave Risks
After half a decade in exile, Sheikh Hasina made the courageous decision to return to Bangladesh. She recalls:
“At last, we glimpsed some light at the end of the tunnel. As limited political activities resumed, the Bangladesh Awami League—the party my father had nurtured since the 1950s—appointed me as its president, a choice warmly welcomed by the people.
I returned in 1981 despite opposition from the ruling military regime.”
Her homecoming, however, did not mark the beginning of an easy political journey. Challenges, trauma, and turmoil awaited her at every turn. Determined and resolute, she devoted all her passion and energy to navigating this arduous path. As she explains, there was no alternative but to persevere, just as her father would have done.
She felt compelled to face the many obstacles head-on, not only to honour the memory of her father and family but also to defend the hopes of a young nation cruelly shattered by the assassins. In her view, the conspirators’ crimes extended beyond murder—they had also sought to extinguish the dreams of a nation long subjugated by colonial and oppressive rule.
Throughout these trials, Sheikh Hasina adopted a guiding principle:
“I would ask myself, ‘What would my father, Sheikh Mujib, do if he were alive today?’ The answer was always to remain steadfast to the ideals that inspired him and the entire nation. We must remain true to the principles of the Liberation War of 1971, for which three million Bangladeshis sacrificed their lives.”
Sheikh Hasina’s New Journey to Realise Bangabandhu’s Dreams and Ideologies
Sheikh Hasina travelled extensively across the country to gain a deep understanding of the needs of its people, especially the disadvantaged, showing empathy for their struggles and identifying their concerns. She reflects:
“To truly comprehend the needs of the people, particularly those who were marginalised, I had to empathise with their immediate problems as well as their hopes and dreams for the future.
I began meeting regularly with ordinary citizens, especially those from impoverished households in rural villages, who represent the true spirit of Bangladesh. I visited countless village markets and grassroots centres. Through these visits, I gained first-hand knowledge of rural economic activities and became acutely aware of their needs, particularly during natural calamities such as floods and cyclones.”
She also devoted considerable time to visiting regions vulnerable to monga—a term used in the Rangpur district to describe seasonal famine affecting northern Bangladesh—and sought to understand the practical realities faced by these communities.
Her reflections were often coloured by her father’s vision. Sheikh Mujibur Rahman had frequently shared with his family his dreams and detailed plans for the nation’s development. He was convinced that the persistent poverty afflicting Bangladesh since colonial times could finally be eradicated through well-thought-out strategies.
Sheikh Hasina recognised that many of the Awami League’s leaders had been lost during the Liberation War and that since 1975, the party had been without clear direction. It was evident that systematic change was essential to bring Sheikh Mujib’s vision to life and to rebuild the country. This realisation compelled her to begin reorganising the Awami League.
Though met with resistance from some who believed no changes were necessary, she was convinced the party needed strengthening—starting from the grassroots and lowest organisational levels—to serve as a robust political platform.
Rebuilding the party proved to be a difficult and painstaking process. Yet, once again, Sheikh Mujib’s philosophy, ideals, and aspirations guided her efforts. At the grassroots, there was a strong desire to rekindle the spirit of the Liberation War and to uphold the fundamental principles enshrined in the country’s Constitution.
Sheikh Hasina on Bangabandhu’s Vision for Bangladesh
My understanding of my father’s thoughts and aspirations—born from his lifelong dedication and profound concern for our country—has been invaluable in translating his ideals into concrete policies and programmes. His guiding principles centred on four key pillars: (1) steadfastness, (2) empathy for the disadvantaged, (3) systematic action, and (4) unwavering commitment to realisation.
Bangabandhu’s dream was to establish an independent Bangladesh that would provide a better life for all its citizens and transform their destiny. When he was at home, he frequently shared with us his plans to make every village self-sufficient by increasing agricultural productivity. He envisaged industrial development, extensive road construction, dredging of waterways, expansion of the railway network, and much more.
He pictured well-maintained roads reaching every village, with rice fields on one side and farmers’ settlements, schools, colleges, railways, hospitals, religious centres, and all the facets of community life on the other. He dreamt of introducing machinery—either individually owned or operated cooperatively—that would greatly enhance productivity.
Bangabandhu sought a radical transformation in agriculture. He proposed production-sharing schemes that preserved land ownership but distributed yields among three groups: (1) the landowners, (2) state-supported cooperatives, and (3) the labourers. He also developed marketing plans for farmers’ produce. Importantly, he believed that conditions could be improved through innovation and persistent effort. His ideas and convictions have been my guiding inspiration and education.
From Mourning to Strength: Bangladesh’s Resilience
The pain of losing family members in 1975 remains unforgettable and overcoming that emotional devastation was incredibly difficult. Yet, for the greater good of our people, I have strived to transform personal grief into strength to build a better Bangladesh, writes Sheikh Hasina.
I have witnessed many wealthy families turn profound loss into philanthropy by creating lasting institutions. For example, the Stanford family donated over 8,000 acres of land after the death of their only child, Leland Jr., in 1884, founding what became Stanford University. Similarly, the Widener family contributed substantially to Harvard University following the tragic loss of their son Harry in the Titanic disaster of 1912, establishing Harvard’s largest and most renowned library.
These examples illustrate how tragedy can be channelled towards noble and enduring causes.
Though I had no wealth to offer, I realised that I could dedicate my tears, determination, and time to the service of Bangladesh. That dark chapter in 1975 ultimately led me, 21 years later, to become Prime Minister in 1996.
Since the Awami League formed the government that year, Bangladesh has achieved self-sufficiency in food production for the first time. Following my third consecutive election as Prime Minister in 2009, I was able to focus more fully on national development. Through the steadfast implementation of Bangabandhu’s philosophy, Bangladesh has transformed into a digital nation and risen to the status of a middle-income country.
Today, Bangladesh stands proudly on the world stage, a testament both to the visionary statecraft of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and to the strategic, tireless efforts of his daughter, Sheikh Hasina, in realising those visionary ambitions.
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