The first female in professional photography in Bangladesh, Sayeeda Khanam, was remembered by her family and friends on Friday.

Drik and Yukto publications jointly launched the extended version of her book Satyajit Ray in My Eyes at an event to mark the photographer’s 86th birth anniversary at DrikPath Bhaban in the city.

Eminent educationist and cultural activist Kazi Gulshan Nahar Madina who was a close friend of Sayeeda Khanam, accepted the book on behalf of everyone.

Speakers said that she inspired generations of Bangladeshi women and opened doors for female photographers and photojournalists in the country.

They said that Sayeeda was more than her achievements and her personal collection of photos remained largely unexplored.

Eminent educationist and cultural activist Kazi Gulshan Nahar Madina said that she first met Sayeeda in the 1950s.

‘It was very surprising to see Sayeeda Khanam with her camera in the 50s that women also could be photographers. She was an inspiration for me and many women,’ added Kazi Madina.

Photographer Shahidul Alam said that he did not consider Sayeeda Khanam as a ‘female photographer’ but a photographer and a rebellious figure.

Speakers at the event said that Sayeeda Khanam was so brave that she entered the field of photography during a time when they were more strictly confined to certain socially structured roles.

They also stressed the need to preserve her works by showcasing her photographs for many enthusiast photographers.

Sayeeda Khanam was born on December 29, 1937, and died on August 18, 2020.