The iconic female characters from the literary universe of Rabindranath Tagore and the women of Thakurbari were celebrated through a vibrant blend of music, dance and fashion at a special programme in Dhaka on Thursday evening.
Titled ‘Nabo Anande Jago’, the event was held at a hotel in Gulshan ahead of the 165th birth anniversary of the Nobel laureate. The programme was jointly organised by the Fashion Design Council of Bangladesh (FDCB), the High Commission of India in Bangladesh and the Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre (IGCC).
The four-hour programme featured portrayals of beloved female characters from Tagore’s literary works through fashion presentations and performances.
Models including Ripa appeared as Labonya from Shesher Kabita, Ila portrayed Bimala from Ghare-Baire, while Rifat embodied Sucharita from Gora. Sanjida performed as Charulata from Nastanirh, alongside portrayals of Giribala, Nandini from Raktakarabi and Mrinalini Devi.
Characters from Tagore’s celebrated dance dramas were also featured, with Saba performing as Shyama, Antara as Chitrangada and Sushmita as Chandalika. Samina Hussain Prema presented a dance performance inspired by Bhanusingher Padavali.
The programme also paid tribute to prominent women of the Tagore family who played influential roles in shaping Bengali culture, including Kadambari Devi, Gyanadanandini Devi, Swarnakumari Devi, Sarala Devi, Indira Devi, Mrinalini Devi, Madhurilata, Renuka and Mira Devi.
Rabindra Sangeet performances were delivered by Swapnil Sajeeb, Farhin Khan Joyeeta, Mahua Manjuri and Semanti Manjuri, while Tropa Majumdar and Ashiqul Islam presented poetry recitations and narration throughout the evening.
The organisers recreated the attire, aesthetics and ambience of the Tagore era through elaborate stage design and period-inspired styling, combining fashion, literature and music in a single presentation.
Speaking at the event, Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma highlighted Tagore’s enduring contributions to humanity and world peace. FDCB President Mahin Khan spoke about the legacy of the women of Thakurbari, while General Secretary Shaibal Saha delivered the welcome address.
