The founder of Bradford based Kala Sangam has been awarded the highly prestigious Begum Rokeya award.
Leeds based Prof Dr Geetha Upadhyaya OBE, was given the award at a grand ceremony held at Leeds Civic Hall, hosted by Lord Mayor Asghar Khan, earlier this month.
The international award was initiated by the Gronthee, a leading south Asian literary platform and Saudha Society of Poetry and Indian music, one of the top promoters of Indian classical and global music.
Named after Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain, commonly known as Begum Rokeya, who was a Bengali feminist thinker, writer, educator, and political activist from British India and widely regarded as a pioneer of women’s liberation in South Asia the award was originally announced virtually at the last International Women’s Day.
Every year the award is given to women from the UK, Bangladesh, and India for their extraordinary contribution in arts and women empowerment.
Dr Geetha was the recipient from the UK for her contribution to the arts, as an acclaimed dancer, choreographer and for founding the award-winning arts institution, Kala Sangam.
A room full of politicians and dignitaries gathered to witness the live felicitation as the Begum Rokeya award conferred upon Prof Geetha at Leeds City Hall.
Stuart Andrew, MP for Pudsey Horsforth and Aireborough was present to offer his congratulations to his constituent and awardee Prof Geetha. He said it was great to see the contribution from women in all societies and it’s great to know the distinguished achievements of Geethaji.
MP for Leeds Northeast Fabian Hamilton too joined in the celebrations. He said: “It’s a pleasure to be here in person.
“I’ve known professor Geethaji since my days as an equal opportunities member of the council.
Thank you for this celebration at a time when women are under attack around the world, when women are undervalued and when people use violence so it’s only right we celebrate women and it’s right that we come together in this wonderful venue of city hall.
“Let us hope there can be many more celebrations such as this and honour the work of our women in this city, especially in arts and culture. Long may it continue.”
The current Lord Mayor for Leeds City Council, Cllr Asghar Khan also congratulated Prof Geetha on achieving the accolade. He said it was a proud moment for Leeds and it’s great to see women thriving in arts.
“Geethaji’ s contribution to the cultural and arts scene is truly inspiring and it’s great to see her being rewarded for her efforts this way” Added Cllr Khan.
On receiving the award Prof Geetha said: “When you get awards and honours it’s a huge responsibility. I am climbing a mountain with ice and soap issues, can you imagine? But we have to make it happen for Leeds because that’s where I started my life.”
She added: “I want to thank everyone who has helped contribute towards the arts and cultural scene and for playing an important role in my life”
