International Women's Day

Kumudini Handicraft’s tribute to sustainability and women’s empowerment

On 8 March, 2024, the Kumudini Flash Fashion Show unfolded as a tribute to the power of tradition, craftsmanship, and women’s empowerment. Aligning with International Women's Day, this exclusive event not only showcased an exotic seasonal collection of fashion but also reinforced the ethos of Kumudini Handicrafts — symbolising care and empowerment, particularly for women.

#Events / Inspire her wellness: A celebration of women's health and empowerment by Dhaka Flow

Amidst the serene backdrop of Baridhara Lakeside Rajuk Park, Dhaka Flow organised its eagerly awaited “Inspire Her Wellness” festival in honour of International Women's Day on 8 and 9 March 2024. This event not only commemorated International Women's Day but also set a precedent for wellness and empowerment initiatives — it was a call to action for inclusion and a celebration of women's multifaceted roles in society.

Women’s Day Special / Dissecting the female gaze in Bollywood

For decades, Bollywood has been primarily driven by the "male gaze," where women were portrayed through the lens of male desire and societal expectations. They presented women in stereotypical roles, often as damsels in distress, sacrificing lovers, or objects of desire. This male gaze manifested in hyper-sexualisation, passive narratives and limited agency. Women rarely drove the plot. Their actions and desires revolved around men, reinforcing traditional gender roles. They were portrayed as lacking control over their lives, with their choices dictated by societal norms or male characters.

Women’s Day Special / Not ‘fair’ at all: Why are fair-skinned actors cast for dark-skinned characters?

In an industry spotlighting talent and storytelling, recent controversies have cast a harsh light on a persistent issue: colourism in casting. The latest uproar emerged when photos of popular actress Sabila Nur surfaced, displaying her intentionally darkened complexion for an upcoming drama, "Bidisha", which is slated to be released today, on the occasion of International Women’s Day. Ironically, this deliberate alteration of the skin complex for the role contradicts the very essence of celebrating this day, sparking a crucial debate over the representation of skin complexion and societal standards.

Women’s Day Special / Empowering voices reflect on progress and challenges of women

Every year, International Women's Day serves as a reminder of the strides women have made in society. It's a day filled with discussions, events, and reflections on women's rights and their integral role in shaping the world. As we commemorate this day once again, prominent figures have shared their perspectives on the ongoing journey towards gender equality.

We must break the glass ceiling, for our own sake

We need to challenge the persistent biases against women in workplace

‘For us, the biggest thing is respect’

"In abroad, they give women's sports the same amount of importance as men's sports. I don't know if the men's and women's sports are getting the same importance, but the situation has improved a lot."

#Women Empowerment / Breaking barriers: Dr Eaysmin Ara Lekha's journey to leadership and gender equality

The notion that women are not suited for leadership positions is gradually dispelled as society advances. Dr Eaysmin Ara Lekha, an academician, writer, researcher and social worker, has dedicated her time and efforts to addressing and actively working to improve academic standards and promote inclusivity throughout her professional life.

#Women Empowerment / Is Bangladesh witnessing a surge in female motorcycle users?

In a nation where traditional gender roles have long dictated societal norms a quiet revolution is underway on the streets of Bangladesh. In recent years, as more and more women are seizing the opportunity to use motorbikes daily, certain cultural perceptions and stereotypes are being effectively challenged.

March 7, 2019
March 7, 2019

'Organic village' of female farmers

This year's theme of International Women's Day -- “Think equal, build smart, innovate for change” aptly fits with the achievement of

March 9, 2018
March 9, 2018

Yes, they can

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday said the country would move faster towards prosperity if men and women could work together.

March 8, 2018
March 8, 2018

What it means to be a woman in the workplace

It is rare for women to be at the top, period. And even rarer for that woman to have worked their way to the top—more commonly, those who hold privileged positions often inherit their family businesses. Here, we feature women in diverse industries who have worked their way to the top, in a man’s world.

March 8, 2018
March 8, 2018

Putting women and girls at the heart of our work

As we reflect on International Women's Day and on the extraordinary and empowered women in our lives—leaders in politics, business, education, civil society, in entertainment and in our homes—we must also address the barriers other women face across the world.

March 8, 2018
March 8, 2018

Breaking the barriers

A room full of women -- young and old and wearing bright clothes and bindis with clinking bangles -- were in a celebratory mood on the eve of International Women's Day yesterday. Every single one of them had a success story following struggle and braking barriers.

March 8, 2018
March 8, 2018

Time is now!

International Women's Day first emerged from women's labour movements at the turn of the twentieth century in North America and

March 8, 2017
March 8, 2017

Against all odds they fight

On this International Women's Day, I want to remember Nasima, Dolly, Shyamoli and all those women who did not allow violence and discrimination to break them, but rather gave them strength to stand up and fight back.

March 17, 2016
March 17, 2016

Bistaar holds exhibit on International Women's Day

In celebration of the International Women's Day 2016, Bistaar: Chittagong Arts Complex organised a group photo exhibition by 18 female photographers of Chittagong.

March 10, 2016
March 10, 2016

Who's that girl?

So, International Women's Day was on March 8.

March 9, 2016
March 9, 2016

What Is Your Name?

My mother's preoccupation with women's education went beyond her family. She would help any woman wanting to advance herself, through education and through jobs.