Government plans major redesign of Taka notes, removing Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s image

The interim government of Bangladesh has announced a significant redesign of the country’s currency, starting with the Tk 20, Tk 100, Tk 500, and Tk 1000 denominations. Notably, the new notes will no longer feature the image of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

The Ministry of Finance and Bangladesh Bank confirmed the decision, marking a shift from the current designs that prominently display the image of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Initially, only the four denominations will undergo the redesign, but officials said that changes to all denominations will follow in a phased manner.

A letter from the Ministry of Finance, dated September 29, instructed Bangladesh Bank to submit detailed design proposals for the new notes. The central bank’s Currency and Design Advisory Committee will play a key role in evaluating and recommending these changes.

"It is requested to send the specific proposal to the finance division as soon as possible after accepting the recommendation of the Currency and Design Advisory Committee of the Bangladesh Bank," the letter read, urging prompt action in finalizing the designs.

The decision to remove Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s image is seen as a departure from the past practice under the Sheikh Hasina government, which prominently featured his likeness on both sides of several notes and even on coins. Currently, paper notes from Tk 2 to Tk 1000 all bear his photo.