Noorjahan Bose

Renowned for her unwavering determination and commitment for social causes, Noorjahan Bose is a distinguished Bangladeshi author. She has also been a persistent champion of women's rights and freedom of thought throughout her life.

Born in 1938 in Patuakhali, Noorjahan made a bold impact from a young age when she led a student strike at her school in 1952 to mourn the killing of students in Dhaka on February 21 -- later to be observed as Language Martyrs' Day. Throughout her student years, she was a passionate participant in progressive politics.

During the Liberation War, she tirelessly served in refugee camps in Kolkata. Following Bangladesh's independence, she joined the Bangladesh Mahila Parishad under the guidance of Sufia Kamal.

Noorjahan later migrated to Washington but remained dedicated to supporting the Bangladesh Mahila Parishad by raising funds.

In 1984, she founded the social welfare organisation, Samhati, in Washington, which played a critical role in establishing Rokeya Sadan, a shelter for homeless women in Bangladesh.

Today, Samhati operates in four districts, serving the needs of vulnerable, marginalised, and oppressed women.

In 1989, Noorjahan established a non-profit organisation named "Asha," which acted as a support group for South Asian female abuse victims living abroad.

Upon her return to Bangladesh, she became involved with the activities of Ain o Salish Kendra, a prominent human rights organisation.

Noorjahan then went onto pen a powerful autobiography titled "Agunmukhar Meye" (Daughter of Agunmukha), which recounts her experiences as a fighter, growing up against all odds in a village along the banks of the Agunmukha river.

In 2016, she was honoured with the Bangla Academy Literary Award for this stirring account of her life.

With deep respect, The Daily Star honours Noorjahan Bose for her lifelong devotion to women empowerment and freedom of thought and expression.

Her tireless work have made a significant impact on countless individuals, empowering them with the tools to shape their own lives and make a difference in their communities.