Introduction
Taslima Nasrin Biography: Taslima Nasrin is a renowned Bangladeshi-Swedish writer, physician, feminist, secular humanist, and activist. Born on August 25, 1962, in Mymensingh, East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), she has dedicated her life to challenging women’s oppression and criticizing religious practices that she perceives as misogynistic.
Nasrin’s upbringing in a Bengali Muslim family exposed her to the mistreatment of women, including victims of rape, which deeply influenced her feminist perspective. She attended Mymensingh Medical College and graduated with an MBBS degree in 1984. During her college years, she started a poetry journal called Shenjuti and began exploring themes of female oppression in her writings.
Early Life and Education
Taslima Nasrin’s early life was marked by exposure to the harsh realities of gender inequality and violence against women, including rape victims in her community. This early exposure deeply impacted her worldview and ignited her passion for advocating women’s rights.
Her educational journey led her to Mymensingh Medical College, where she pursued her dream of becoming a physician. In 1984, she graduated with an MBBS degree. It was during her college years that she initiated a poetry journal called Shenjuti, which became a platform for her to explore the themes of female oppression in her writings.
In the initial phase of her literary career, Nasrin focused primarily on poetry. She authored several collections that resonated with readers, as her poems eloquently voiced the struggles and aspirations of women in a patriarchal society. Her poetry became a powerful tool for shedding light on the plight of women in Bangladesh.
However, it was her transition to novel writing that catapulted her to global prominence. In 1993, Nasrin published her groundbreaking documentary novel, “Lajja” (Shame). This work depicted the struggles of a Hindu family targeted by Muslim fundamentalists in Bangladesh. “Lajja” received critical acclaim internationally but also ignited significant controversy, showcasing Nasrin’s unwavering commitment to addressing sensitive issues.
Quick Information
Real Name: Taslima Nasrin
Date of Birth: 25 Aug.1962
Age: 59 Years (in 2023)
Birth Place: Mymensingh, East Pakistan (Now Bangladesh)
Height: 5 ft 4 inches. / 162 cm.
Weight: 58 Kg. / 127 Lbs.
Nationality: Bangladeshi, Swedish, Indian
Religion: Islam
Zodiac Sign: Virgo
Marital Status: Divorced
Husband/Spouse:
- First Husband- Rudra Mohammad Shahidullah (Bangladeshi Poet, M. 1982 -Div. 1986.)
- Second Husband- Nayeemul Islam Khan (media personality, M. 1990 – Div. 1991)
- Third Husband- Minar Mahmud (M. 1991 – Div. 1992)
Parents:
- Father – Dr. Rajab Ali
- Mother – Edul Ara
College/University: Mymensingh Medical College, Bangladesh
Academic Qualification: MBBS
Net Worth: N/A
Contact Number: N/A
Social Contacts:
Profession: Author, Social Activist, Physician
Novel
- Lajja, 1993
- Forashi Premik (French Lover), 2002
- Oporpokkho (The Opponent), 1992
- Beshorom (Shameless), 2019.
- Shodh, 1992. ISBN 978-81-88575-05-3. Trans. in English as Getting Even.
- Nimontron (Invitation), 1993.
- Phera (Return), 1993.
- Bhromor Koio Gia (Tell Him The Secret), 1994.
- Brahmaputra pare (At the bank of Brahmaputra river) 20
Poetry
- Nirbashito Narir Kobita (Poems from Exile), 1996
- Atole monitoring (Captive in the Abyss), 1991
- Balikar Gollachut (Game of the Girls), 1992
- Golpo (stories), 2018
- Jolpodyo (Waterlilies), 2000
- Bondini (Prisoner), 2008
- Khali Khali Lage (Feeling Empty), 2004
- Kicchukhan Thako (Stay for a While), 2005
- Amar Kichu Jay Ashe Ne (I Couldn’t Care Less), 1990
- Shikore Bipul Khudha (Hunger in the Roots), 1982
Short stories
- Dukkhoboty Meye (Sad girls), 1994
- Minu, 2007
Awards, Honours, and Achievements
- Sakharov Prize (1994)
- Human Rights Award (1994)
- Edict of Nantes Prize (1994)
- Kurt Tucholsky Prize (1994)
- Honorary Citizenship from Esch, Luxembourg (2011)
- Honorary Doctorate, 2011
- Feminist Press Award, 2009
- Academy Award, 2013
Autobiography
- Amar Meyebela (My girlhood), 1997
- Utal Hawa (Wild Wind), 2002
- Ka (Speak Up), 2003; published in West Bengal as Dwikhandito (Split-up in Two), 2003
- Sei Sob Andhokar (Those Dark Days), 2004
- Ami Bhalo Nei, Tumi Bhalo Theko Priyo Desh (“I am not okay, but you stay well my beloved homeland”), 2006.
- Nei, Kichu Nei (Nothing is there), 2010
- Nirbasan (Exile), 201
Essay Collections
- Nirbachito Column (Selected Columns), 1990
- Jabo na keno? jabo (I will go; why won’t I?), 1991
- Noshto Meyer nosh to god do (Fallen prose of a fallen girl), 1992
- ChoTo photo dukkha kotha (Tale of trivial sorrows), 1994
- Narir Kono Desh Nei (Women have no country), 2007
- Nishiddho (Forbidden),2014
- Taslima Nasreener Godyo Podyo (Taslima Nasreen’s prose and poetry), 2015
- Amar protibader bhasha (Language of my protest), 2016
- Sakal Griho Haralo Jar (A poet who lost everything), 2017
- Bhabnaguli (My thoughts), 2018
- Bhinnomot (Different opinions),2019
Exile and Persecution
Nasrin’s fearless criticism of Islam and her fervent advocacy for women’s equality led to threats on her life. In 1994, fearing for her safety, she was forced into exile. She spent over a decade in Europe and the United States, seeking refuge from those who considered her a threat to their beliefs and traditions.
In 2004, Nasrin found temporary sanctuary in India, where she continued her literary work and activism. However, her presence in India was met with opposition, leading to her expulsion from the country in 2008. She currently resides in New Delhi, India, under a long-term resident permit, exemplifying her unwavering resilience.
Literary Legacy
Throughout her life, Nasrin has faced physical attacks and threats from religious fundamentalists. These challenges, however, have not deterred her from continuing to write. She has authored over thirty books, including poetry, essays, novels, short stories, and memoirs. Her works, translated into multiple languages, serve as a testament to her personal experiences, feminist philosophy, and her struggle against oppressive cultural and religious practices.
Nasrin’s literary contributions extend beyond mere storytelling; they catalyze social change. Her writings continue to inspire individuals to challenge societal norms and advocate for gender equality and human rights.
A Voice for the Oppressed
Despite the controversies and adversities that have marked her journey, Taslima Nasrin remains a prominent figure in the literary world and a tireless advocate for women’s rights and secular humanism. Her courage and determination in raising critical societal issues have made her a symbol of resistance and a powerful voice for the oppressed.
Controversies
Taslima Nasrin’s life has been marked by numerous controversies due to her bold and provocative writings. One of the most significant controversies surrounding Nasrin was sparked by her book “Lajja” (Shame), which shed light on the persecution faced by Hindus in Bangladesh. The book, which received critical acclaim internationally, deeply offended conservative religious groups who accused Nasrin of blasphemy and undermining the values of Islam. In 1993, a fatwa was issued against her, calling for her execution and leading to her forced exile from Bangladesh.
During her exile, Nasrin’s life remained fraught with danger and uncertainty. She faced constant threats and attempts on her life from religious extremists who considered her a threat to their beliefs and traditions. Despite the risks, Nasrin fearlessly continued to speak out against religious fundamentalism, advocating for women’s rights and freedom of expression.
In addition to her literary battles, Nasrin found herself embroiled in a controversial adoption case. She adopted a girl named Putul, whose mother had been tragically murdered. The adoption faced legal disputes and attracted criticism, with questions raised about Nasrin’s motives and her ability to provide a suitable upbringing for the child.
Throughout all the controversies, Taslima Nasrin has remained steadfast in her commitment to championing women’s rights and challenging oppressive norms. Her life serves as a powerful reminder of the immense challenges faced by individuals who dare to question societal conventions and fight for equality and freedom in the face of fierce opposition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Taslima Nasrin’s most famous work?
Taslima Nasrin’s most famous work is the novel “Lajja” (Shame), which gained international acclaim and ignited controversy for its depiction of the persecution faced by Hindus in Bangladesh.
2. How many books has Taslima Nasrin authored?
Taslima Nasrin has authored over thirty books, including poetry, essays, novels, short stories, and memoirs.
3. What awards has Taslima Nasrin received for her contributions?
Taslima Nasrin has received numerous awards, including the Sakharov Prize, Human Rights Award, Edict of Nantes Prize, and more, in recognition of her outstanding contributions to literature and human rights advocacy.
4. Why was Taslima Nasrin forced into exile?
Taslima Nasrin was forced into exile due to threats on her life and a fatwa issued against her after the publication of her novel “Lajja,” which criticized religious practices and highlighted the persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh.
5. Where does Taslima Nasrin currently reside?
Taslima Nasrin currently resides in New Delhi, India, under a long-term resident permit, continuing her advocacy for women’s rights and secular humanism.
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