Begum Sufia Kamal: An icon of women's rights

Professor Sanatkumar Shaha presented the keynote paper on Equal Participation of Women in State Governance: Democratic Culture of Politics. In his speech Professor Shaha elaborately discussed the historic background of the role of women in state governance throughout the world dating back from the ancient period. He also discussed the history of state governance and how mostly men controlled it. He also stressed on the negative impact of the image of women that has been portrayed in the world literature and myths. Lastly, he spoke of the negligence that women faced in the past years.

Professor Shaha dwelt on the principal reasons of male dominance in political history and on how women have advanced and become efficient and dependable workers despite obstacles and negligence. In conclusion, he suggested that women can have effective participation in state governance. In his words, 'If the character of men remain unchanged and the women keep following it as ideal, then the true victory of womanhood will never be established. Women must flourish by their originality.'

Evaluating the keynote paper, Ayesha Khanam said that it is difficult for women to establish themselves in state governance but the struggle is still on. Commemorating Sufia Kamal's birth anniversary, she said, 'She is the symbol of our morality. We always go back to her for shelter to establish the culture of humanity.'

Wahidul Haque expressed the view that Sufia Kamal was not only a women's rights activist but also the leader of cultural movement. Her extraordinary personality, he said, has led us to become intellectually empowered and enlightened.

Veteran woman activist Hena Das unequivocally spoke about Sufia Kamal's tremendous contribution to our cultural movement. She said, 'We should proceed on the path where she started her journey and promise that we will follow the path of freedom and work for the welfare of human beings.'

At the end of the discussion session, noted artiste Subarna Mustafa recited from Stri Jatir Abanati by Begum Rokeya, while celebrated Tagore singers Iffat Ara Dewan, Mita Haque, Aditi Mohsin and others rendered songs.