Sanjida Khatun has been a rare personality, nurturing the revival of Bangladeshi cultural over the last five decades. A literature professor by profession and a deeply devoted vocalist she has been a driving force to many through her sincerity and devotion to forwarding the cause of our cultural heritage. From the time in the erstwhile East Pakistan when she was under constant government surveillance to the time she established Chhayanat along with Wahidul Haque, she had steadfastly promoted Bengali cultural, and inspired countless artistes. It was through Chhayanat that the celebration of Pahela Baishakh at Ramna Botomul became part of the Begali cultural fabric. Chhayanat became the umbrella organisation for dancers, singers and musicians and achieved a symbolic status in the country, somewhat like Rabindranath's Shanti Niketan.

In his speech, Mamunur Rashid, country director and managing director of Citibank NA, noted Sanjida Khatun's contribution to the field of performing arts, specifically Rabindra Sangeet, in Bangladesh. Professor Rafiqul Islam, in his speech, mentioned how he had observed the seasoned artiste over the last six decades as a friend and colleague. He noted how her indomitable spirit and devotion had helped create the sustainable platform for promoting Bangladeshi culture.

The Governor of Bangladesh Bank, Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed then ceremoniously handed over a commemorative crest, on behalf of Citibank, to Sanjida Khatun. Dr. Ahmed noted how inseparable Sanjida has become with our heritage to the point that it was difficult to distinguish between the two, much like the difficulty in distinguishing between "the dance and the dancer".

Advisor to the Caretaker Government Tapan Chowdhury, on behalf of Citibank NA, then presented a cheque for US $2,500, which Sanjida donated to Chayanat. Receiving the cheque, treasurer of Chhayanat, Dr. Sarwar Ali stressed on Sanjida Khatun's uncompromising stance in promoting Bengali culture.

Sanjida, in her acceptance speech, noted the importance of promoting culture that transcended the boundaries of religion and race. Chhayanat, she said, had grown into its present state not with any assistance from the government or other organisations, but backed by donations from countless patriotic citizens -- both at home and abroad. To her, this is a testament of how dearly people hold on to their heritage and are ready to defend it from any force, whether internal or external.

The ceremony was followed by a collection of songs celebrating the season of monsoon -- rendered by leading artistes Mita Huq, Khurshid Alam and Shahin Samad.

The occasion was part of a series of events Citibank organises to recognise personalities who have made a difference in the cultural scene of Bangladesh.