One Billion Rising’s ‘Revolution’ marks presence in Dhaka

She was speaking at the renowned landmark Rabindra Sarobar in Dhaka’s Dhanmondi, where hundreds of people witnessed an evening of feminist-themed performances and artistic pieces, with One Billion Rising’s event ‘Rising with Eve’.

Khushi Kabir said, “One of every three women has faced sexual harassment or violence at least once in their lives (according to statistics). That is one billion people of the world population. This is hardly a sign that people are civilised.”

The brilliant performances of SPaRC, Ghashphoring Choir, Samgeet, It’s A She Thing and other pro-feminist bodies and artists brought to light many women issues including rape and stigmatizing women’s body, genitalia and menstruation.

OBR’s Founder Eve Ensler and Global Director Monique Willson also conveyed their messages to the Dhaka crowd through their own performances. Willson, a broadway artist, presented a song, while Ensler recited a monologue.

In her monologue, Ensler said, “A revolution is happening. Women are going to be seen, respected and cherished.”

“My revolution begins in my body. It does not need permission,” she said.

Speaking of violence against women, Chakma added that women are not victims of any wars or conflicts but of harassment, which makes it a global issue, not a women’s issue alone.

The open air event ended with a flash mob performance on the tunes of ‘Break the Chain’, a song that told all women to rise above all abuses. It left the audience cheering and wanting for more.

Nushrat Farhana, a resident of Dhanmondi, said she found the event very powerful, inspiring and entertaining.