OBR 2025 in Bangladesh

See full report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ah6lD7jarp3s0vl74kvQIQ-mEcq9xTQj/view?usp=drive_link

The 12th anniversary of the global One Billion Rising (OBR) movement was marked in Bangladesh under the theme “Rise for Freedom, Rise Against Fascism”, reflecting both local and global struggles against gender-based violence and authoritarianism. The celebrations, jointly organized by OBR Bangladesh, Sangat Bangladesh, Landless Organization, Nijera Kori, and allied groups, took place throughout January and February 2025 across Dhaka and multiple districts nationwide.

Key Events in Dhaka

  • Launching Rally (January 26) at Manik Mia Avenue brought together around 100 human rights activists from organizations such as Naripokkho, Bangladesh Mahila Parishad, and BLAST. The event featured speeches by feminist leaders including Fauzia Khondkar Eva, who inaugurated the 2025 campaign, followed by a communal art performance symbolizing unity and resistance.

  • Human Chain and Performance “Himmoti Mai” (February 14): Led by creative activist Ritu Sattar, participants staged a powerful protest performance with sticks pounding the ground, accompanied by speeches from Khushi Kabir and other feminist activists addressing patriarchy and global fascism.

  • Cultural Event and Exhibition (February 22) at Bishwo Shahitto Kendro featured panel discussions moderated by Khushi Kabir, with speakers Dr. Zobaida Nasreen and Trishia Nashtaran. The event included performances by Bottola Theatre, indigenous music, Bharatanatyam dance (“Break the Chain”), and an art exhibition titled “Uddomer Ek Jug – 12 Years of Rising”, showcasing OBR’s journey in Bangladesh and South Asian solidarity artworks by Vasuki Jayashanker.

Nationwide Grassroots Programs (February 14–16)

Across 14 districts and 28 sub-districts, local organizations conducted 34 OBR events engaging over 6,300 participants, including adolescents, women, men, and marginalized groups. Activities included:

  • Human chains, rallies, and discussions in 31 sub-centers with 5,800 participants addressing issues like rape, child marriage, and systemic discrimination.

  • Stencil graffiti campaigns, cycle processions, and football tournaments promoting gender equality and challenging patriarchal norms.

  • Cultural programs such as drama, songs, and poetry that encouraged youth-led advocacy for social justice.

Impact and Reflections

The campaign strengthened grassroots mobilization and youth engagement, enhancing awareness around gender-based violence, freedom, and justice.

  • Artist Monica Jahan Bose emphasized open dialogue as vital for resisting fascism.

  • Community leaders like Nilufa Begum and K.M. Alam Tome highlighted the growing consciousness among youth and the need for continuous awareness programs to combat gender inequality.

Overall Outcomes

  • Widespread Participation: 34 rises across 14 districts.

  • Community Mobilization: Collaboration among 30+ organizations.

  • Youth Empowerment: Art, music, and sports as advocacy tools.

  • Resistance and Solidarity: Collective stand against patriarchy and authoritarianism.

In essence, OBR Bangladesh 2025 celebrated twelve years of feminist resistance, creativity, and unity — reaffirming the commitment to freedom, justice, and an end to gender-based violence through collective grassroots action and artistic expression.