Tagore exponent Dr Sanjida Khatun received Visva Bharati University’s highest recognition, Deshikottam Award (D Lit), for her contribution to music, on Friday at the university’s convocation ceremony, reported various Indian and local press.
Governor of Paschimbanga MK Narayanan, also chief of Visva Bharati University, handed over the award to the noted singer who is also a former student of the university. She was adorned with Uttariya by vice chancellor of the university, Susanto Datta Gupta. Noted film actor Soumitra Chatterjee was chief guest at the programme.
An emotionally moved Sanjida said at the ceremony, ‘I have so many memories at the campus. In my campus days, I never thought that I would receive such an award from the university.’
In addition, Indian artistes like classical legend Pundit Jasraj, eminent painter Ganesh Paine and leading stage personality and former director of National School of Drama (NSD) in New Delhi Ebrahim Alkazi, were all conferred the honour, as well as Indian agricultural scientist M S Swaminathan.
The convocation ceremony, which was held after a long gap of six years, was attended by about 8,000 students amidst much enthusiasm. The campus was decorated with hand-painted designs which created a festive mood.
Widely known as prominent Tagore exponent and researcher, Sanjida has made a long and arduous journey – from being one of the first women to speak in public meetings to being under constant surveillance by the government of the erstwhile East Pakistan and its cohorts; from the formation of Bangladesh Mukti Sangrami Sangstha to the foundation of Chhayanaut. Yet, at 74, Sanjida stands tall as she always has, and exudes confidence and a strong personality.
-With New Age input
