Last tributes paid to Priyabhashini

People from all walks of life paid their last respects to noted sculptor and freedom fighter Ferdousi Priyabhashini at the Central Shaheed Minar in Dhaka today.

Priyabhasini was given a guard of honor on the Shaheed Minar premises when her body was taken there around 11:00am. Her body was kept there for one and a half hours so that people can pay their tributes to the eminent sculptor.

Artistes, political leaders and activists of different socio-cultural organisations converged on the area to say goodbye to Priyabhashini.

Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader also placed a wreath on her coffin.

"She had sacrificed a lot as a freedom fighter, she is a bright example for the new generation. Her sculptures added new dimensions to art," Quader said while talking to reporters after placing the wreath.

Information Minister Hasanul Haque Inu said, "She was an example of courage for the women who are struggling in the society in different sectors. She used to raise her voice about women's rights."

Her daughters -- Fuleshwari Priyanandini, Rotneshwari Priyadarshini and two sons- Karu Titas and Kazi Shaker Turjo were present at the ceremony.

Fuleshwari, daughter of Priyabhashini, said her mother had struggled throughout her life. "It is our pride that our mother's last address will be beside Jahanara Imam."

Her namaj-e-janaza was held at Dhaka University's central mosque after Zohr prayers. She will be buried at Mirpur Martyred Intellectuals Graveyard in the capital beside the grave of martyr Jahanara Imam.

Ferdousi Priyabhashini, who had been suffering from multiple health complications, breathed her last at Labaid Hospital in the city on Tuesday.