Photo: Courtesy
With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Marium Begum at the age of 101. A trailblazing activist, entrepreneur, award-winning markswoman and politician, Marium Begum’s life embodied courage and leadership. Born in 1923 to an illustrious Muslim family from Faridpur, daughter of Khan Bahadur Mohammad Ismail and Kawkabunessa Begum, she was a key figure in the Bengali Language Movement and served as general secretary of the Gandaria Mohila Samity, advancing women’s empowerment. In 1955, she founded Rupayan, becoming one of Bangladesh’s first female entrepreneurs.
After 1971, Marium Begum helped establish the Bangladesh Mohila Punorbashon Sangstha, providing support for Biranganas (war victims) and their children. Later, as a Member of Parliament, she advocated for social justice and women's rights.
She is survived by two daughters, one son, their spouses, four grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and two brothers (Anis-ud-Dowla and Asaf-ud-Dowla). Marium Begum’s legacy of justice and empowerment will inspire all who knew her. May her soul rest in peace
Her Janaza will the held baad Jumma on Friday, 3rd January 2024 at Masjid Al Magfirah, Road -18, Sector-3, Uttara, Dhaka
Her beloved surviving children,
Nelofar Khandker (Taj)
Rownak Khandker
Shumona Hasan (Ratna)
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