Seventh day of ‘Mujib Chirantan’ celebrates womanhood

Celebrating the birth centenary of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the golden jubilee of Bangladesh's independence, a ten-day programme, "Mujib Chirantan", began on March 17 at the capital's National Parade Square.

The seventh day of the event began with the theme, "Narimukti, Shammo O Shadhinota", celebrating womanhood.

A virtual discussion session hosted and inaugurated by Deputy Minister for Education Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury, featured welcome messages by the Speaker of the Parliament Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury and Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO.

After the Liberation War, Bangabandhu bestowed the title of 'Birangana' to the war heroines. Introducing them as his daughters, Bangabandhu took up the role of a father for the ones who lost their families.

Commemorating Bangabandhu's determination for an equal country with equal opportunities for all, the cultural programme highlighted the glorious achievements of women in Bangladesh over the last 50 years, in every sphere of life. Starting from RMG workers to the Speaker of the Parliament, Bangladeshi women have proved their resilience, bravery, and integrity time consistently.

The cultural session featured performances from female artistes, including Runa Laila, Fatema Tuz Zohora, Salma Akbar, Samina Chowdhury, Chandana Majumdar, Dora, F Minor, Shithi Saha among others.

Dance performances by Munmun Ahmed and several other dance troupes reflected on women's beauty and grace, as well as their strength and determination.

Elita Karim and Dilshad Nahar Kona paid a tribute to music legend Ayub Bachchu, with a cover of "Bhalolagar Bhalobashar Tumi Amar Bangladesh", a song by him.  "Nongor Tolo Tolo" was performed by Fatema Tuz Zohora, Samina Chowdhury, Salma Akbar, Elita and Kona, accompanied by Ghaashphoring Choir.

Meghdut, Shormimala, Afsana Mimi, Tonima Hamid and Tropa Majumdar's monologues resonated with the audience, as they explored and recognised women's contributions to and sacrifices for the world that we live in today.