Dhaka event celebrates women of Thakurbari and Tagore’s literary heroines

The women of Thakurbari and the unforgettable female characters created by Rabindranath Tagore came alive in Dhaka on Thursday evening through a unique blend of music, dance and fashion.

Titled “Nabo Anande Jago,” the programme was organised at a hotel in Gulshan ahead of the 165th birth anniversary of the Nobel laureate. 

The event was jointly arranged by the Fashion Design Council of Bangladesh, the High Commission of India in Bangladesh and the Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre.

The showcase recreated iconic women characters from Tagore’s literary works through performances combining fashion, dance and theatrical presentation. Performers portrayed well-known characters including Labonya from Shesher Kabita, Bimala from Ghare-Baire, Sucharita from Gora, Charulata from Noshtonid, Giribala and Nandini from Raktakarabi. 

The event also featured portrayals of characters from Tagore’s celebrated dance dramas Shyama, Chitrangada and Chandalika.

The programme paid tribute to influential women of the Tagore family, including Kadambari Devi, Gyanadanandini Devi, Swarnakumari Devi, Sarala Devi, Indira Devi and Mrinalini Devi, recognising their contributions to Bengali culture and society.

The evening also included performances of Rabindra Sangeet by several artistes, alongside poetry recitations and narration inspired by Tagore’s literary legacy.

Organisers said the event aimed to present a detailed recreation of the Tagore era through period-inspired costumes, stage design and artistic performances, creating a fusion of Bengali literature, heritage and fashion.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma highlighted Tagore’s lasting contribution to humanity and global peace. 

Fashion Design Council of Bangladesh President Mahin Khan reflected on the legacy of the women of Thakurbari, while General Secretary Shaibal Saha delivered the welcome address.