In preparation for the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha, new designs of 20, 50, and 1000 taka banknotes are set to be released.
Unlike previous issues, these notes will not feature the portrait of any political leader — including Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
A spokesperson for Bangladesh Bank stated that the new notes will not include the image of any recognizable person.
Instead, the designs will highlight themes from the country’s Liberation War, artwork or graffiti from the July 2024 movement, and other symbolic illustrations representing national history. No individual portraits will be used on the new currency.
Despite speculation on social media suggesting that the new notes might feature images of freedom fighters or other notable figures, authorities have clarified that such claims are baseless.
Plans to release redesigned currency notes were initially made before Eid-ul-Fitr. However, as the original designs included Sheikh Mujib`s portrait, objections from multiple quarters led to a delay. This prompted a redesign process focused on neutrality and emphasizing key historical moments.
Sources from the printing facility reported that production of the new 20 taka note is nearly complete and will be handed over to Bangladesh Bank this week.
The 50 and 1000 taka notes are expected to be ready by the following week. Bangladesh Bank will determine the date of their release afterward.
Following the fall of the previous government in the wake of the mass student and citizen uprising on August 5 last year, an interim administration was formed.
Calls were made from various sectors to introduce new banknotes, but due to the time required for design and production, it was not feasible until now.
In December, a formal decision was made to proceed with new currency designs, and printing began earlier this month. The 20, 50, and 1000 taka denominations are being printed in the first phase.
