🏞️ Bangladesh Quiz: Test Your Knowledge About the Land of Rivers

The Ganges-Brahmaputra Delta, also known as the Bengal Delta, is the largest delta on Earth. Formed by the confluence of the Ganges (Padma), Brahmaputra (Jamuna), and Meghna rivers, it covers most of Bangladesh. This delta region is fertile but also prone to flooding and cyclones.

Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, affectionately known as the “Father of the Nation,” was the founding leader and first Prime Minister of Bangladesh. He played a central role in the independence movement and was the leader of the Awami League. His vision and leadership helped shape modern Bangladesh.

The white water lily, known locally as Shapla, is the national flower of Bangladesh. Found abundantly in ponds, lakes, and rivers, it symbolizes purity, simplicity, and natural beauty. The Shapla is also a part of the country’s traditional art and rural culture.

The Ganges River, known as the Padma in Bangladesh, plays a vital role in the country’s agriculture, transportation, and livelihood. It merges with the Jamuna and Meghna rivers to form the world’s largest delta. The Padma River supports irrigation, fishing, and fertile lands that sustain millions of Bangladeshis.

Biman Bangladesh Airlines is the flag carrier and national airline of Bangladesh. Established in 1972, it operates domestic and international flights across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. The word “Biman” means “aircraft” in Bangla, and the airline’s logo features the national flower, the Shapla (water lily).

The Magpie Robin, locally called Doyel (or Doel), is the national bird of Bangladesh. It is small, black and white in color, and known for its melodious song. The bird is considered a symbol of beauty and cheerfulness. In Dhaka, Doyel Chattar (Doel Square) is even named in its honor.

Sylhet, in northeastern Bangladesh, is famous for its lush tea gardens and scenic hills. The region produces a large share of Bangladesh’s tea exports and is known for its natural beauty, waterfalls, and cultural diversity.

21 February is observed as Language Movement Day, known as Ekushey February in Bangladesh. It marks the 1952 movement in which students protested to preserve the Bengali language as a state language of Pakistan. Several students were killed by police, but their sacrifice led to the eventual recognition of Bangla. The day is now observed globally as International Mother Language Day by UNESCO.

Bengali, or Bangla, is the official and most widely spoken language in Bangladesh. It is part of the Indo-Aryan language family and is used by around 98% of the population. The language holds great national significance — the 1952 Language Movement, in which people sacrificed their lives to preserve the right to speak Bangla, eventually led to the recognition of International Mother Language Day on February 21 by UNESCO.

Victory Day (Bijoy Dibosh) is celebrated every year on 16 December to commemorate Bangladesh’s triumph over Pakistani forces in 1971, marking the end of the Liberation War. It symbolizes national pride, freedom, and the creation of an independent Bangladesh. The day is celebrated with parades, cultural events, and tributes to the martyrs of the war.

The jackfruit, locally called Kathal, is the national fruit of Bangladesh. Known for its large size and sweet taste, it’s an important food source and used in various dishes. The jackfruit symbolizes abundance and is cultivated widely across the country.

The Hilsa fish, locally called Ilish, is the national fish of Bangladesh. It’s not only a staple food but also a cultural symbol. Hilsa is found mainly in the Padma and Meghna rivers and is prized for its unique flavor. It features prominently in Bengali cuisine, especially during festivals and celebrations.

Pahela Baishakh marks the Bengali New Year and is celebrated on 14 April every year. It is one of the most vibrant cultural festivals in Bangladesh, symbolizing new beginnings, unity, and the rich heritage of Bengali traditions. People wear traditional clothes, especially white and red, enjoy local foods like panta bhat (soaked rice) and ilish (hilsa fish), and take part in fairs, music, and processions such as the Mangal Shobhajatra, which is recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Islam is the predominant religion in Bangladesh, practiced by about 90% of the population. Most Bangladeshi Muslims follow the Sunni branch of Islam. The country, however, maintains religious freedom, and minority groups such as Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians also live peacefully across the nation.

Dhaka is the capital and largest city of Bangladesh, located on the banks of the Buriganga River. It is the administrative, commercial, and cultural hub of the nation. Known for its vibrant history and rich architecture, Dhaka is often called the “City of Mosques.” It’s also one of the world’s most densely populated cities and home to major institutions like the University of Dhaka and the Jatiya Sangsad (National Parliament).

The Bangladeshi Taka (symbol: ৳, code: BDT) is the official currency of Bangladesh. Introduced in 1972 after independence, it replaced the Pakistani rupee. The term “taka” originates from the Sanskrit word “tanka,” meaning coin. Bangladesh Bank, the central bank, is responsible for issuing the currency and regulating its value.

The Jatiya Sangsad is the unicameral national parliament of Bangladesh. It consists of 300 directly elected members and 50 reserved seats for women. The parliament building, designed by the American architect Louis I. Kahn, is one of the most stunning pieces of modern architecture and symbolizes Bangladesh’s democracy. Located in Dhaka, it serves as the heart of the nation’s legislative process.

Chittagong, officially known as Chattogram, is Bangladesh’s main seaport and second-largest city. Located on the southeastern coast along the Bay of Bengal, it serves as a key commercial and industrial hub. The port handles the majority of Bangladesh’s exports and imports, especially garments, jute, and tea.

Tajingdong, also known as “Bijoy,” is officially recognized as the highest peak in Bangladesh, with an elevation of about 1,280 meters (4,200 feet) above sea level. Located in the Bandarban District of the Chittagong Hill Tracts, it’s a popular destination for trekkers and nature lovers, offering breathtaking mountain scenery.

Cricket is the most loved and followed sport in Bangladesh. The national cricket team, known as the Tigers, has achieved significant success in international tournaments. Cricket unites the nation, and matches, especially against India or Pakistan, attract massive national attention and celebration.

The Indian Ocean lies south of Bangladesh, connected through the Bay of Bengal. This coastal access plays an important role in the country’s maritime trade, fishing, and climate. The oceanic influence also contributes to Bangladesh’s tropical monsoon weather patterns.

The Sundarbans, located in the southwest of Bangladesh, is the largest mangrove forest in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to diverse wildlife, including the Royal Bengal Tiger, saltwater crocodiles, and spotted deer. The forest acts as a natural barrier protecting coastal regions from cyclones and tidal surges, making it crucial for Bangladesh’s ecology.

Bangladesh gained independence from Pakistan on 16 December 1971 after a nine-month-long Liberation War. The conflict was triggered by cultural and political discrimination against the Bengali-speaking population of East Pakistan. With support from India, the people of Bangladesh achieved victory, leading to the creation of a new sovereign nation.

The Bay of Bengal, part of the northeastern Indian Ocean, borders Bangladesh to the south. It plays a crucial role in the country’s economy and climate, supporting fisheries and maritime transport. However, it is also a source of cyclones that frequently affect coastal regions.

The Royal Bengal Tiger (Panthera tigris tigris) is the national animal of Bangladesh. It inhabits the Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest shared between Bangladesh and India. The tiger symbolizes strength, courage, and the spirit of independence.