At a two-day book fair organized by the Bangla Center in Bethesda, Maryland, prominent writer Nurjahan Bose was honored with the DC Book Fair Literary Award and a Lifetime Achievement Award for her outstanding contributions to Bengali literature and social service.
Held on June 26 and 27 under the theme “Bengali Books Around the World,” the fair aimed to strengthen literary practice and cultural connections among Bengali-speaking expatriates. The event was inaugurated on Friday evening by Bangladeshi-Swedish writer, feminist, and human rights activist Taslima Nasrin, who officially opened the fair by cutting the ribbon and lighting the ceremonial lamp.
The book fair attracted a large number of expatriate Bengalis and book lovers from Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C.. According to the organizers, the primary objective of the event was to introduce Bengali language, literature, and culture to the younger generation growing up abroad.
Alongside book sales, the two-day event featured writer-reader discussions, book introductions, and various cultural programs.
Organizers said Nurjahan Bose was recognized for her decades-long literary work, autobiographical writings, and her role in women’s empowerment. During the ceremony, speakers highlighted different aspects of her literary contributions, noting that her writings reflect not only personal experiences but also social change and women’s struggles.
Nurjahan Bose has previously received several prestigious recognitions for her literary contributions. In 2016, she was awarded the Bangla Academy Literary Award in the autobiography category. Organizers believe this latest recognition will further inspire the Bengali literary community.
