A reprint of an interview of Sufia Kamal by Mahfuz Anam.

Begum Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain (1880-1932) and Begum Sufia Kamal (1911-1999), two icons in Bangla literature and culture, were not kins but kindred spirits.

She came out from the cocoon of the accepted designated roles of women and marched forward to live an extraordinary life. 

"I selected excerpts from eight famous works, books like Begum Rokeya’s 'Motichur' and 'Ekattorer Diary' by Sufia Kamal, and expanded on their implied or intended meaning as best as I could."

Sufia Kamal, (June 20, 1911–November 20, 1999), lived a long and eventful life. She not only witnessed great cataclysms in history but played a major role in empowering women in an oppressive society.

Today marks the 107th birth anniversary of renowned poet, Begum Sufia Kamal. An iconic figure in the women's rights movement in Bangladesh, Sufia Kamal's contributions to Bangladesh, its Liberation War and literature are unforgettable.

Marking the 105th birth anniversary of Sufia Kamal -- one of Chhayanaut's founders, the leading cultural organisation of the country is set to hold a programme at its Ramesh Chandra Memorial Auditorium today. Solo and choral songs and recitation will feature at the programme, beginning 11am.