On 4 January 2026 at 11:00 a.m., a tribute program was organized on the occasion of the 6th death anniversary of late Ayesha Khanam, former President of Bangladesh Mahila Parishad, at the Anwara Begum–Munira Khan Auditorium of the organization’s central office.
At the beginning of the program, floral tributes were paid by the leaders of the Central Committee and Dhaka City Committee of Bangladesh Mahila Parishad, along with officials working at the central office. Following the tribute, a one-minute silence was observed in honor of the departed leader.
After the silence, a group song was performed by the organization’s officials: Advocacy and Networking Director Jona Goswami; Legal Advocacy and Lobby Director Dipti Rani Shikder; Training, Research and Library Director Shahjadi Shamima Afzali Shampa; Training Officer Mayabi Dutta; Program Officer Jharna Akhter; and Store Keeper Rokeya Begum. A duet song was performed by Training Officer Mayabi Dutta and Program Officer Jharna Akhter. A recitation was presented by IT Coordinator Dolan Krishna Shil, and a solo song was performed by Training, Research and Library Director Shahjadi Shamima Afzali Shampa.
General Secretary Maleka Banu said that there are many cherished memories associated with Ayesha Khanam. She highlighted Ayesha Khanam’s eventful life, her extraordinary organizational skills, unparalleled oratory, and her immense contributions to the country and the women’s movement. She recalled how Ayesha Khanam seamlessly connected national and global histories of the women’s movement with the country’s social and political context in her fluent speeches. The information and insights shared in her speeches played a supportive role in guiding women’s movement activists, members of civil society, and representatives of government and non-governmental organizations in determining their respective responsibilities.
She further noted that Ayesha Khanam’s greatest source of strength was the grassroots activists of the organization spread across the country, whom she deeply nurtured and upheld. Emphasizing the future of the women’s movement, Maleka Banu called upon everyone to follow the path shown by late Ayesha Khanam, strengthen the organization through unity, enhance professional skills alongside volunteerism, and work collectively. She also urged greater coordination among elected peoples’ representatives, human rights activists, social workers, media professionals, and NGO workers.
Dr. Fauzia Moslem said that she had shared a journey of more than half a century with Ayesha Khanam. Although she is no longer physically present among them, she continues to guide every step of Bangladesh Mahila Parishad—a belief shared by all. She never hesitated to express her opinions, and her leadership qualities were particularly remarkable. Preparing herself at every moment to advance the women’s movement and building relationships with people for social progress were among her defining traits.
Dr. Fauzia Moslem remarked that in the current time of crisis, Ayesha Khanam’s absence is felt profoundly. However, to overcome these challenges and establish human rights, it is essential to follow the path she showed—there is no room for stagnation. Progress must continue by taking people along and by keeping people at the center of all thoughts and actions.
The tribute program was attended by the leaders of the Central Committee and Dhaka City Committee of Bangladesh Mahila Parishad, Secretaries, Sub-Committee members, and officials.
The program was moderated by Umme Salma Begum, Organizational Secretary of Bangladesh Mahila Parishad.
