Instead, she says she has found peace in the life she chose. “I am satisfied with my life. I am genuinely happy.” Still, one regret remains. “My mother did not live long enough to see the beautiful part of my life,” she said quietly. “I could not keep her close to me for long enough. That is the one sorrow I still carry.”

It has been a couple of weeks at least since the Bangla New Year celebrations, which we lovingly refer to as Noboborsho. However, Coke Studio Bangla’s “Tati” is still dominating playlists. ‘Taanti’, or in this case “Tati”, refers to the craftsperson or the creator of fabrics, who works with the material called taant – depicting motifs, colourful borders, and softness to touch. Especially in this heat, a taant saree or a fatua is always a welcome addition to an average Bangladeshi wardrobe, allowing one to breathe easy and at the same time, look trendy.

Every year, International Women's Day serves as a reminder of the strides women have made in society. It's a day filled with discussions, events, and reflections on women's rights and their integral role in shaping the world. As we commemorate this day once again, prominent figures have shared their perspectives on the ongoing journey towards gender equality.