A tribute to war heroes

This year's War Graves Week, an annual event organised by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC), is being held for the first time in Bangladesh from May 20 to May 28.

With the theme of "Discover, Learn, and Remember," the week-long event aims to raise public recognition and awareness of the CWGC and the Commonwealth War Grave Foundation.

In a statement, Hillol Sattar, country manager of CWGC, Bangladesh, said, across the United Kingdom and around the world, a myriad of captivating events will take place, including guided tours, and other immersive experiences.

"This year, we have expanded our reach, hosting events for the first time in Bangladesh, Egypt, India, Israel, Kenya, Pakistan, Tunisia, and Turkey," he announced.

"Through War Graves Week, we invite participants to delve into our work and understand the profound significance of commemorating those who made the ultimate sacrifice," Hillol said. The week coincides with the anniversary of the Commission's formation through a Royal Charter on May 21, 1917.

"We encourage everyone to join the conversation surrounding the CWGC, spread the word about our events, and inspire others to visit our website and sign up for our CWGC newsletter," Hillol added.

CTG COMMONWEALTH GRAVEYARD

Chattogram Commonwealth War Cemetery has emerged as a captivating destination not only for local residents but also for visitors from far and wide. Established in 1945, the cemetery stands as a solemn tribute to the brave Commonwealth soldiers and others who lost their lives during World War II, with the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) dutifully maintaining the site, according to CWGC officials.

The cemetery, located on a picturesque seven-acre plot at Badshah Miah Chowdhury Road, opposite to the Art Institute of Chittagong University, has been attracting a significant number of visitors on a daily basis.

Upon entering the cemetery through the main gate, visitors are greeted by a large cross, which stands at the heart of the ground, evoking a sense of reverence and spirituality. Each burial is marked with the name, nationality, age, and date of death of the deceased.

Many of the graves also feature heartfelt epitaphs, accompanied by meticulously tended small gardens.

There are 755 graves of war victims in the lush parkland.

Of them, 731 are Commonwealth graves, while there are graves of 20 more foreign nationals -- 19 Japanese soldiers and a Dutch Navy seaman, informed Hillol.

These soldiers fought against the Japanese army in the Burma front during World War II. There are also four non-war British military personnel buried there.

While visiting the cemetery, this correspondent met Asad Haider, who was accompanied by his curious seven-year-old daughter. "I wanted my daughter to learn about history, so I brought her here," he said.

Tamanna Binte Karim, a student at Government Hazi Muhammad Mohsin College in Chattogram, said, "Situated amidst the serene embrace of a hill, the cemetery offers a tranquil setting. We have gained a profound understanding of the Commonwealth soldiers who fought in World War II."