BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. -File Photo

DHAKA, Jan 7, 2026 (BSS) - Cultural figures from across the country today paid glowing tribute to BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, remembering her as an uncompromising guardian of democracy and a towering political figure whose life and struggle left a vital mark on the nation.

Organized by Begum Khaleda Zia Tribute Committee, the event was held at the main auditorium of the National Theatre Hall this evening.

Begum Khaleda Zia Tribute Committee Convener and BNP Standing committee member Begum Selima Rahman spoke at the event as the chief guest with former president of Jatiotabadi Samajik Sangskritik Sangstha (Jasas) Rezabuddoula Chowdhury in the chair.

Noting late prime minister Begum Khaleda Zia’s contribution in cultural arena, Begum Seilma Rahman said, "Through institutions like the Shilpakala Academy, theatres, art galleries, and museums, Begum Khaleda Zia left a lasting mark on the country’s cultural development which no subsequent government has been able to replace.”

“Despite enduring false cases, repression, and persecution throughout her life, Begum Khaleda Zia continued an uncompromising struggle against hegemony and fascism both political and cultural. When hegemonic ideologies sought to dominate our culture, Begum Khaleda Zia stood firmly in favor of native culture and independent thought," she noted.

She added that Begum Khaleda Zia’s influence is present in every major sphere of the country’s art, literature, and culture, which are strong foundation for protecting national identity.

Speaking at the event, Rezabuddoula Chowdhury recalled the struggle of Khaleda Zia in uplifting the democratic practice and fight for preserving native cultures.

He said, “During her life time Begum Khaleda Zia stood firmly beside artists, writers, and cultural activists in resisting cultural hegemony.”

Artistes, poets, writers, teachers, journalists and cultural activists gathered at the event honoring the late prime minister by reciting poems and remembering her struggle of fighting against foreign cultural hegemony. 

Participants and organizers at the event signed the condolence book opened for the memory of Begum Khaleda Zia.

The event concluded with a documentary screening on the life and struggle of late prime minister Begum Khaleda Zia.