Photo : BSS

RANGPUR, Dec 13, 2025 (BSS) - Speakers at a special memorial programme today said that Begum Rokeya's conscience, philosophy and ideals will continue to inspire women across generations to ensure their education, rights, dignity and empowerment. 

They said Begum Rokeya was a great social philosopher, human rights activist and a pioneer of the women's renaissance in the subcontinent, and that her ideals still show the right path and direction for modern society, generations, politicians and policymakers. 

Rangpur Shahittya-Sangskriti Parishad organised the programme marking the birth and death anniversaries of Begum Rokeya at its office on the city's Town Hall premises last night. 

The programme began with two group songs titled "Jaago Nari Jaago, Bohni Shikha" and "Chal Chal Chal Urdho Gagane Baje Madal." 

Organisation President Dr Nasima Akhter presided over the function, while Literary Secretary writer Afzal Hossain presented an article titled "Begum Rokeya and the Obstacles to Women's Education." 

Parishad General Secretary Mamun Ur Rashid moderated the programme, while distinguished writer and academician Professor Mohammad Shah Alam, Parishad Adviser Professor Abdus Sobhan, Advocate Masum Hasan and Music Secretary Pushpajit Roy took part in the discussion. 

Purnima Raj and Nushrat Upma recited poems dedicated to Begum Rokeya. 

Among others present were Parishad Executive Committee member Mamtazur Rahman Babu, drama instructor Shravan, Principal Abdul Khalek and Assistant Professor ASM Ferdous Alam. 

In her closing remarks, Dr Nasima Akhter recalled Begum Rokeya's outstanding contribution to women's education, rights and empowerment in a conservative society during the British colonial period. 

"In today's society, proper implementation of Begum Rokeya's ideals is essential to ensure women's rights, empowerment and equal participation in building a truly happy, prosperous and inequality-free Bangladesh," she said.