Eight of the 12 thought leaders shared their insights on the changing times and imparted words of wisdom for the younger generation.

Once your values are gone, it is hard to get them back. It is possible to rebuild if you lose infrastructure -- as Japan and Germany did after World War II -- but if you lose your sense of collective morality, it takes a lot longer to stand back up again.

Intellectual freedom is crucial for a nation’s advancement, Mahfuz Anam, editor and publisher of The Daily Star, said yesterday.

The Daily Star, which promotes freedom of thought and expression, has recognised some of the country’s thought leaders who contributed to the progressive journey of Bangladesh, at the 32nd anniversary event of the newspaper at Radisson Blu Water Garden Hotel in the city yesterday.

"You have to always speak up and assert yourself. That is how freedom is earned," said Rehman Sobhan

“Where are the research grants that bring in new knowledge? Where is the incentive for scholars to devote their lives in pursuit of knowledge?” Mahfuz Anam, editor and publisher of The Daily Star, asked.

As part of the event, The Daily Star honoured some of Bangladesh’s thought leaders

From printmaking to painting, watercolour to oil or acrylic on canvas, he has created an impressive body of work that showcases his exceptional eye for details and his masterful use of colour and composition.

During the Liberation War, she tirelessly served in refugee camps in Kolkata. Following Bangladesh's independence, she joined the Bangladesh Mahila Parishad under the guidance of Sufia Kamal

With a keen eye for combining philosophical perspectives with pedagogical issues, Sharifa Khatun has penned more than 40 journal articles and several influential books

Throughout his long career, which spans over six decades, Badruddin has consistently used his writing to challenge those in positions of authority and to shine a light on the struggles of ordinary people.

Professor Choudhury has been a vocal critic of autocracy and imperialism, and has consistently fought for the rights of workers, peasants, women, and minorities

During Bangladesh's Liberation War, Sobhan served as a roving ambassador for the Provisional Government, tirelessly seeking global support and assistance

His belief in art as an instrument of protest against injustice was evident from his early age

Rafiq chose research and writings as his way of serving his nation and promoting the ideals of freedom and justice.

Following Bangladesh's independence, Dr Kamal served in Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's government in several capacities, including as the minister of law, the minister of petroleum and minerals, and the minister of foreign affairs

Sayeed's commitment to promoting freedom of thought extends beyond his literary endeavours.

Throughout his entire life, Jatin has been dedicated to progressive politics. He served as the president of the progressive cultural organization, Udichi. In the mid-70s, his political beliefs led him to spend a year in jail. Despite facing challenges and obstacles, Jatin remained steadfast in his commitment to his principles and continued to be a voice for change and progress

Following Bangladesh's independence, Hameeda dedicated her efforts towards supporting the women survivors of the war-time sexual violence. In 1974, she co-founded Karika - Bangladesh Hastashilpa Samabaya Federation Ltd, an organisation aimed at promoting and commercialising local handicrafts