The Mainamati War Cemetery in Cumilla exudes a profound sense of peace and reverence, nestled amidst lush greenery and blooming wildflowers. The cemetery is the resting place for 737 soldiers from 13 nations who gave their lives during World War II.
Each grave is marked by a simple plaque, engraved with not only the name and details of the soldier but also poignant lines from their loved ones, adding a deeply emotional and personal touch.
The serene environment, with meticulously maintained gardens and sloping landscapes, offers a quiet sanctuary that honours the memory of these fallen heroes. The tranquility of the site, complemented by the vibrant flora and the solemnity of the engraved tributes, evokes both sorrow and gratitude, reminding visitors of the sacrifices made for peace.
Every November, diplomats from Commonwealth countries gather to pay their respects, honouring the legacy of these fallen heroes. On November 9 this year, representatives from 13 nations laid floral tributes at the cemetery, reaffirming the enduring bond of sacrifice and remembrance.
The cemetery is situated approximately 1 km from the Cumilla Cantonment Circle, a short 5 to 6 minutes ride by battery-operated auto-rickshaw.
During a visit to the Mainamati War Cemetery by Tausiful Islam and AR Sumon of The Daily Observer last Friday morning, it was observed that the cemetery was open to the public, with no entry ticket required.
The serene site is fenced with metal netting and the grounds are lined with flowering trees, enhancing its natural beauty.
Despite the calm and picturesque setting, the cemetery was less frequented in the morning.
Gardener Md Abul Bashar, who has maintained the cemetery for 21 years, said the site attracts more visitors in the evening. The cemetery is open to public in two shifts: from 7:00am to 12:00pm and from 2:00pm to 5:00pm.
Each grave is marked with a plaque detailing the soldier's name, age, nationality and a personal tribute from the deceased's family. Surrounding each grave are flower trees or saplings, adding to the peaceful ambiance of the site. The inscriptions on the plaques are particularly moving, reflecting the deep emotions of loved ones left behind.
One plaque reads, "He answered his country's call. Always remembered. RIP," honouring 20-year-old Flight Sergeant GK Gibb of the Royal Australian Air Force.
Another reads, "Softly the leaves of memory fall. As each day passes, we miss you more," a tribute to LDG Aircraftman L Coyle.
A plaque for Young Pilot Officer B. Skeen reads, "Beautiful memories treasured forever of happy days we spent together."
The inscription for 28-year-old Sergeant GN Theobald reads, "My peace I give unto you," written by his wife.
For 22-year-old FW Theobald, who died on November 23, 1943, his parents wrote, "Sleep on dear son. I loved you well. But God knew best. Rest in peace."
One of the most emotional tributes is found on the plaque of 21-year-old JE Dean: "A voice we loved is stilled. A place is vacant in our home, which never can be filled."
In a quieter corner of the cemetery lies a grave containing the remains of 23 soldiers, aged between 20 and 34 years. The story of their sacrifice remains etched in the soil, a testament to the horrors of war.
Bacchu Mia, a 110-year-old local resident, said he visits the cemetery since childhood.
He said, "My son-in-law works as a driver at the Cumilla Cantonment, so my family lives nearby. I often visit the cemetery, especially in the afternoons. I feel proud to honour the young soldiers who gave their lives for their countries. The peaceful environment is soothing." While he could not recall the exact year of the cemetery's establishment, Bacchu Mia reflected fondly on his visits.
Mohammad Rehan Uddin, a 2011-12 graduate in Islamic Studies from Dhaka University, also shared his connection to the site. "Cumilla is my hometown. I now work as an assistant teacher at Rampur High School, near the cemetery. After returning to Cumilla for employment, I have visited the cemetery frequently, especially in the evenings. The serenity of the place touches my heart," he said.
Meanwhile, the Japanese government has been repatriating the remains of 24 of their soldiers from the cemetery.
Bir Protik Lt Col (Retd) Quazi Sajjad Ali Zahir is assisting with the Japanese forensic team.
Talking to this correspondent, Zahir shared, "My father often brought me to this cemetery, telling me stories about its creation."
"During the Second World War, many wounded soldiers were brought to medical camps in places like Chattogram and Cumilla. The cemetery was chosen for its elevated and relatively clean land, which was less prone to flooding. It was surrounded by dense jungles, but this area had a natural beauty, with wildflowers blooming in the fields," he said.
Zahir, who has conducted extensive research on war history, explained that the repatriation of the Japanese soldiers' remains began in 2013 and has been carried out with the utmost respect.
"The Japanese are incredibly respectful of their fallen heroes. This repatriation is a form of honouring them," he said.
