Dhaka – Sanjida Khatun, a pioneering figure in Bangladesh’s cultural landscape, a distinguished musician, and a co-founder of Chhayanaut, has passed away, her family confirmed.
She breathed her last at around 3pm on Tuesday at a hospital in Dhaka, where she had been receiving treatment for the past week, according to her daughter-in-law, Laisa Ahmed Lisa, who is also the General Secretary of Chhayanaut.
Born on April 4, 1933, Khatun pursued her bachelor’s degree in Bengali language and literature at Dhaka University in 1954. She then completed her master’s at Visva-Bharati University in India in 1955 and later earned a Ph.D. in 1978. She began her career in academia and served as a longtime faculty member in the Bengali department at Dhaka University.
Her father, Kazi Motahar Hossain, was a National Professor, while her mother, Sajeda Khatun, was a homemaker.
From an early age, Khatun was known for her strong stance against injustice. Even as a college student, she actively engaged in academics, recitation, acting, and music while participating in various organizational activities.
She joined the Brotochari movement under the guidance of artist Kamrul Hasan and was also involved with the Mukul Fouj organization.
Her journey in music began under the tutelage of Sohrab Hossain, from whom she learned Nazrul Sangeet, modern Bengali songs, and folk music.
Later, she studied Rabindra Sangeet under Husne Banu Khanam and several other renowned mentors.
As a student at Dhaka University, Khatun played an active role in the 1952 Language Movement from its early stages. Throughout her life, she remained dedicated to preserving and promoting Bengali culture and heritage.
Her immense contributions have left an indelible mark on Bangladesh’s cultural identity.
One of her most enduring legacies is the Chhayanaut-organized New Year’s celebration, where a chorus performs under the Ramna banyan tree on the first day of Baishakh every year. This tradition will continue to keep her memory alive in the hearts of millions for generations to come.