Taslima returns to Kolkata after two decades

Exiled Bangladeshi writer Taslima Nasrin has returned to Kolkata, India, after nearly two decades. She arrived at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport on Friday (July 31) afternoon from Delhi. The writer, visibly emotional after returning to the city she loves, said, "It feels wonderful."

Friends, admirers and representatives of various social and political organisations were present at the airport to welcome her. Tight security arrangements were in place at the airport in view of her safety.

Prior to leaving for Kolkata, Taslima Nasrin wrote on social media on Friday morning: "Today, at dawn, I set out for Kolkata." Within hours, her message became a reality. Dressed in a white saree with a red border, she was greeted by a large crowd of fans and admirers at the airport, many holding banners with her image and messages of welcome.

According to the organisers, she has been invited to Kolkata by three organisations — 'Secular Mission', 'Human Rights and Bangladesh Freedom Fighters Foundation' and 'For West Bengal'. She is scheduled to take part in an anti-fundamentalist poets and writers' event at Rabindra Sadan on Saturday, where several political and cultural figures are expected to be present .

Taslima Nasrin's departure from Kolkata nearly two decades ago was marked by a major controversy. In 2007, the publication of her novel Dwikhandito (Split) sparked widespread protests and violence across West Bengal . The administration had to take tough measures to control the situation, and she was asked to leave the city for security reasons. The book was also banned by the then Left Front government .

Although the government in West Bengal changed subsequently, no initiative was taken for a long time to allow her return. Her arrival this time, after nearly 20 years, is being seen as a significant moment by her admirers.