ZCZC
BSS-14
OBIT-SAYEEDA-KHANAM
Bangladesh’s first female photographer Sayeeda Khanam passes away
DHAKA, Aug 18, 2020 (BSS) – Sayeeda Khanam, Bangladesh’s first female photographer and an awardee of Ekushey Padak, passed away at her own residence in Banani here on Monday night at the age of 83.
Family sources said she had been suffering from kidney related complications for a long time.
She will be buried next to his mother’s grave at Banani cemetery today.
Sayeeda Khanam, born in Pabna on December 29, 1936, obtained Masters Degree in Bengali Literature and Library Science from Dhaka University.
She debuted her career as a photographer in the late 50’s.
At that time, she was the only and the first female photographer in the then East Bengal (present day Bangladesh).
Before the liberation war of Bangladesh, Sayeeda took pictures of women training with weapons in Azimpur area of Dhaka.
Along with photography, she also used to write all time.
Her notable books include ‘Dhulomati’, ‘Smritir Path Beye’, ‘Amar Chokhe Satyajit Ray’.
State Minister for Cultural Affairs KM Khalid has expressed deep shock and sorrow at the death of Sayeeda Khanam.
In a condolence message today, he said, “Sayeeda Khanam started working as a photographer in ‘Begum’ newspaper in the 50s. She has worked with famous film directors like Satyajit Ray”.
Mentioning that many women have chosen this brave and dignified profession being inspired by the indomitable courageous photographer Sayeeda Khanam, the state minister said that this magical woman, one of the pioneers of women renaissance in Bangladesh, will be remembered through her work forever.
He prayed for eternal peace of the departed soul and conveyed deep sympathy to the bereaved family.
BSS/KC/RQ/GMR/1425 HRS