They also emphasised that all the plays composed by Neelima, a pioneer of cultural movement in the country, be staged in the theatres.

Mahila Samity organised the discussion to mark the fourth death anniversary of Dr Neelima Ibrahim at the Neelima Ibrahim auditorium at New Baily Road in the city.

Addressing the function as a special guest, Editor of Anonnya, a fortnight magazine, Tasmima Hossain said the society is suffering from absence of competent leaderships like Begum Rokeya, Sufia Kamal and Neelima Ibrahim.

"All the writings of Neelima should be compiled to keep her alive among us for a long time." said Tasmima.

She assured that Anonnya would render all assistance in the compilation of Neelima's work.

General Secretary of the Samity, Advocate Sahara Khatun recalling her experience with Neelima said Neelima led the women community as Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman gave her the responsibility after the liberation war.

"Nilima always thought how to make women self-reliant and therefore stressed the need for providing education and vocational training to them."

President of Bangladesh Group Theatre Federation M Hamid said, Neelima Ibrahim was the shelter for the nation in the post-liberation period of the country.

Referring Neelima's contribution in women movement, the speakers said participation of women in different sectors, including education, economics, politics and current success of women empowerment in the country has been possible for the strong movement initiated by Neelima Ibrahim after Sufia Kamal.

President of the Samity, Selina Khalek presided over the discussion while President of East West University Dr Mohammad Farashuddin addressed as the chief guest.

Vice President of the Samity Prof Momtaj Begum conducted a munajat for the salvation of the departed soul of late Neelima Ibrahim at the beginning of the programme.

Programme
Today is the fourth death anniversary of eminent academic and writer Dr Neelima Ibrahim.

The Mahila Samity will place wreaths at her graveyard at the Martyred Intellectuals' Graveyard in Mirpur in the city at 8:00am to mark the day.

Doa mahfil will be held at Mahila Samity Primary Schools at Bailey Road and Aganawab Dewry at 11:00am.