Tribute paid to poet Sufia Kamal

The 99th birth anniversary of renowned poet Sufia Kamal, a pioneer in the women's rights movement, was observed yesterday.
Different socio-cultural organisations held various programmes, including discussion and cultural function, to pay tribute to the poet.
Bangladesh Mahila Parishad arranged a discussion at Biam auditorium, with its president Ayesha Khanam in the chair. The Parishad also awarded Artist Quayyum Chowdhury at the programme for his outstanding contribution to art and culture.
Chhayanaut organised a cultural programme at its auditorium in the evening.
In the morning, family members of the poet and leaders of Bangabandhu Sangskritik Jote placed wreaths at the grave of the poet at Azimpur Graveyard.
Born in Barisal on June 20, 1911, poet Sufia Kamal dedicated her life to empowering women. She was at the forefront of all political, social and cultural movements during her lifetime to establish human rights and achieve women's emancipation.
She took part in all political movements that defined the future of the country since 1947. Her role in the struggle leading to the 1971 Liberation War, anti-autocratic movement in 1990 and the anti-collaborator movement in 1992 are memorable.
Poet Sufia Kamal was instrumental in establishing the Bangladesh Mahila Parishad, Chhayanaut and Kachi Kanchar Mela.
She received Independence Day Award, Ekushey Padak, Bangla Academy Award, Deshbandhu CR Das Gold Medal, and many other national and international accolades.
The poet passed away on November 20, 1999.