By — Dilip Guha
Recently, International Women’s Day was observed with a powerful celebration of women’s voices through poetry, music, and theatre at the Muktodhara Auditorium in Delhi last Sunday. The evening centred on the writings of Taslima Nasrin, the Bangladeshi-Swedish writer and feminist activist whose work has long challenged patriarchal norms and advocated women’s rights. Organised by Japonchitro Natya Goshthi, a theatre group in the capital known for its socially conscious productions, the programme brought together literature, performance, and dialogue in a tribute to women’s resilience and struggle.
For decades, Taslima Nasrin’s poetry and prose have questioned gender inequality, social restrictions, and the denial of women’s autonomy in patriarchal societies. Her widely discussed works, such as Lajja and All About Women, have received international recognition for their bold portrayal of women’s lives and their uncompromising critique of oppression. On this occasion, Nasrin herself attended the event and recited several of her poems, drawing warm appreciation from the audience gathered at the auditorium.
The evening, accompanying her, also featured musical and poetic performances by singer and composer of modern Bengali poems Mousumi Hussain, known for her interpretations of modern Bengali poetry through song. Her recitations and musical renditions reflected the experiences, emotions, and identities of women, echoing the central message of the programme—the strength of women and the continuing struggle for equality. Her voice, carrying warmth and nostalgia, resonated deeply with the audience, while for both the artists the musical arrangement by Saurasanta Biswas added an evocative layer to the poetic atmosphere of the evening.
During the programme, Taslima Nasrin delivered a powerful message that captured the spirit of the day. “This is not a day of mercy, but a day of claiming rights. Women’s struggle has brought us this day—International Women’s Day,” she said, emphasising that the occasion should be seen not as an act of charity but as a recognition of women’s long struggle for dignity and equality. The statement shifted the focus from symbolic celebration to the deeper political and social meaning of the day.
Nasrin’s recitations included several notable pieces such as Maa Er Kachhy Chiti, Mrittuhin Maye, Uddyaner Nari, and O Maye Sono. Her calm yet resolute delivery carried emotional depth, reflecting the quiet strength and resilience that often define women’s journeys. Together with Mousumi Hussain’s musical interpretations, the performances created an intimate artistic dialogue with the audience about the many dimensions of womanhood.
The highlight of the evening was the staging of Shodh – Revenge, a theatrical adaptation of Taslima Nasrin’s novel Shodh. Presented by Japonchitro Natya Goshthi, the play was written and directed by theatre artist Shuan Bose. The production carried special significance on International Women’s Day, made even more meaningful by the presence of the celebrated author in the audience.
The play explores the realities of patriarchal culture, where women are often expected to remain obedient, self-sacrificing, and silent. Through its central character, the narrative examines questions of identity, autonomy, and the emotional consequences of living under such expectations. The protagonist grapples with difficult choices about relationships, motherhood, and independence, torn between the conventional path of family life and the desire for self-discovery.
As the story unfolds, the character confronts powerful social pressures that attempt to dictate how a woman should behave, what choices she should make, and how love, success, and family should be understood. These expectations shape the conflicts she faces and ultimately influence the path she chooses. Though rooted in a specific cultural context, the story resonates universally, reflecting the experiences of many women navigating the tension between personal identity and societal expectations.
Through its narrative and performances, Shodh – Revenge offered a poignant commentary on societies where women continue to fight for equality and recognition. The production highlighted the emotional and social complexities faced by women seeking independence within deeply entrenched patriarchal systems.
