Ferdousi Mazumder brings ‘Bhindeshi Chhoy Golpo’ to young readers

On the eve of her birthday, celebrated actress, writer and cultural icon Ferdousi Mazumder spent an afternoon surrounded by some of her most attentive listeners, children.

The occasion was the publication ceremony of “Bhindeshi Chhoy Golpo”, a collection of six translated stories published by Shaishab Prokash. Held at Ichchhetola in Uttara today (June 18), the event brought together almost 20 children aged between 4 and 15, along with distinguished cultural personalities including Tropa Majumdar, Dilara Zaman, Afzal Hossain, Ramendu Majumdar and Azad Abul Kalam.
 

The programme began with a warm birthday tribute from the children to Ferdousi Mazumder and Tropa Majumdar. The children then received copies of the newly published book from Ferdousi Mazumder herself. After taking an oath as members of Ichchhetola, they sang the Rabindra Sangeet “Mora Sotter Pore Mon, Aji Koribo Somorpon”.

Welcoming the audience, Afsana Mimi, who has been associated with Ichchhetola, spoke about the organisation’s commitment to nurturing young minds through literature and culture.

The highlight of the evening was Ferdousi Mazumder’s storytelling session. Speaking about the importance of language, she encouraged children to speak Bengali with care and respect. She reminded them that language reflects character and that beautiful words help people connect with one another.



She also explained how the word “Ichche” (will) symbolises aspiration and determination. According to her, every meaningful achievement begins with a wish.

Mazumder then read “Bochorer 12 Ti Mash”, a Greek folk tale from the collection. Bringing the story alive with expressive narration, she patiently explained difficult words and ideas to the children. After the reading, she discussed the story’s moral lessons and answered the children’s curious questions.

The event also featured speeches from invited guests. Dilara Zaman praised Ferdousi Mazumder’s effort, saying the book was a valuable gift for young readers and encouraging the children to read it. Afzal Hossain reflected on his own childhood, recalling evenings spent studying by hurricane lamp and speaking about the importance of striving to become someone worthy of standing beside respected elders.
 

The programme concluded with the presentation of flower bouquets and potted sweet potato plants to Ferdousi Mazumder and Tropa Majumdar.



For the celebrated performer, whose career spans theatre, television, film and literature, it was a fitting way to mark another year: sharing stories with the next generation.

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