Today marks the anniversary of the passing of actress Rupa Khan, renowned for her portrayal of Rajrani in folklore-based performances across stage, radio, television, and film during the 1960s and 1970s.
Born on August 14, 1930, in Madaripur district, Rupa Khan hailed from a distinguished Muslim family. A prominent figure in Dhaka's stage scene in the 1950s, she later transitioned to radio, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. Her demise at the age of 61 was mourned by colleagues and admirers across various entertainment mediums.
Post-liberation, Rupa Khan (Kohenoor Begom) dedicated herself to promoting art and culture in Bangladesh through consistent involvement in stage, radio, television, and film. Despite her significant contributions to the burgeoning Bangladeshi cinema, many pioneers of the industry, including Khan, have regrettably slipped into obscurity.
Known for her versatility, Khan portrayed a range of characters, from negative roles to those of idealized mother figures. Notably, she portrayed Rajrani in numerous folklore-inspired productions across different mediums.
Her filmography includes iconic titles such as "Zoar Elo," "Raja Sannyasi," and "Rahim Badshah," among others. Beyond her cinematic endeavors, Rupa Khan was also an active participant in political affairs, notably serving as President of the Women's Awami League in the Shariatpur-Madaripur District during the Liberation War.
Alongside Khaleda Khanam, former Parliamentary whip of the Awami League, Rupa Khan played a pivotal role in mobilizing women and youth in Shariatpur-Madaripur to contribute to the liberation struggle. Despite her unquestionable commitment to the cause and documented involvement in the war effort, recent discrepancies have arisen regarding her recognition as a freedom fighter.
While Khanam has been duly acknowledged for her role, Khan's status remains unresolved, prompting her family to appeal to the Ministry of Liberation War for a fair assessment of her contributions. They express hope for the Prime Minister's intervention in ensuring Khan's rightful recognition, highlighting the injustice of her continued exclusion from the roster of esteemed freedom fighters.
As discussions persist, Khan's family remains steadfast in their pursuit of honoring her legacy and securing the recognition she rightfully deserves for her courageous endeavors during Bangladesh's struggle for independence.