Dhaka: Speakers at a memorial meeting on poet Sufia Kamal recalled her contribution to enlightening society and women emancipation through her lifelong struggle. Bangladesh Mahila Parishad (BMP) organized the Memorial Lecture on the 114th birth anniversary of poet Sufia Kamal, who was a trailblazer in women’s liberation and a pioneer in Bangladesh’s social and cultural movements.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the event took place at Abdul Karim Sahitya Bisharad Auditorium of Bangla Academy, where the Sufia Kamal Honor Award was also conferred, followed by a cultural program. The memorial lecture, titled ‘Sufia Kamal: Women’s Journey Across Barriers,’ was delivered by Dr. Samina Lutfa, Professor of the Sociology department of Dhaka University.
Presiding over the event was Dr. Fauzia Moslem, President of Bangladesh Mahila Parishad, with General Secretary Maleka Banu delivering the welcome address. Organizing Secretary Umme Salma Begum conducted the event. Dr. Lutfa, in her address, reflected on Sufia Kamal’s enduring legacy as a symbol of resistance, creativity, and commitment to gender equality.
The Sufia Kamal Honor Award was presented to renowned painter and Emeritus Professor of Dhaka University, Rafiqun Nabi, in recognition of his contribution to the country’s cultural landscape. The recitation on the award recipient was read by Rina Ahmed, Secretary of Training, Research, and Library at the Mahila Parishad.
The ceremony commenced with floral tributes placed before the portrait of Sufia Kamal and the playing of the national anthem. Noted Rabindra Sangeet artistes Iffat Ara Dewan, Mahiuzzaman Chowdhury (Moyna), and Laisa Ahmed Lisa performed in the musical soiree, with vocal artists reciting selected poetry in tribute to Sufia Kamal.