Book-talk: Celebrating forgotten daughters of history
On July 3rd, Sabiha Huq (Professor, ENH), discussed her newest book ‘The Mughal Aviary’ with Mahrukh Mohiuddin (Managing Director, UPL). Talking about the inspiration the author explained how an English writer who wrote about the Mughal Princess Jahanara channelled her interest into writing this book.
She further shared that the story centers on four Mughal women whose stories are often overlooked and hidden due to geopolitical reasons. She was determined to unfold those tales to the audience. She believes historical fiction is a method to learn about the pages hidden by politics. The book is about four wonderful historical authors whose inks have shaped narratives of emperors. Gulbadan Begum (1523-1603) wrote a biography of her brother, Humayun, titled Humayun-nama. Jahanara Begum (1614-1681) wrote two biographies, which trace the Mughal Empire’s growth. Zeb-un-Nissa (1638-1702) was an ambassador of secular philosophy and wrote poetry. Habba Khatoon (1554-1609) wrote love songs which to this day are sung.
Photo credit: Saiyeda Tasnuva Tayab
Mahrukh Mohiuddin said, “UPL is interested in publishing books written by students, either in Bangla or English, which can help us learn our culture.” She believes that our writers writing about feminist history deserve to be heard. She is also hopeful to translate the book ‘The Mughal Aviary’ to Bangla for the masses.
At the very end, Sabiha Huq remarked, “Is it possible for history to treat us fairly? It will never be kind to us until we are kind to ourselves.” She invites readers to reimagine history through a feminist lens. Because according to her our cultural past should not only be preserved but also retold by the people it belongs to.
