Today is the 135th birth anniversary and 83rd death anniversary of Begum Rokeya Sakhawat. The birth and death anniversaries of the noted feminist, philosopher, writer and social reformer of Bangladesh are being officially observed as Rokeya Day since 1994.

Different socio-cultural organisations, and political parties and leaders, including opposition leader in parliament Rowshan Ershad and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, issued statements marking the day.

Meanwhile, fashion designer Bibi Russell and late poet Taibun Nahar Rashid have been selected for Begum Rokeya Padak-2015 for their contributions to expanding education for women and establishing their social rights. The women and children affairs ministry today will hand over the awards in the capital.