Zeenat Barkatullah dies

Ekushey Padak-winning dancer Zeenat Barkatullah died at her home in Dhanmondi in the capital on Wednesday (September 20) afternoon.

Bijori Barkatullah, daughter of Zeenat Barkatullah, confirmed her mother’s death.

Zeenat Barkatullah is survived by her two daughters.

The renowned dancer and actress had been ill for long. Earlier, she was admitted to hospitals in several phases. She was put on life support when her health condition deteriorated. Around two years back, she was diagnosed with coronavirus. After that, she suffered from lung infection and internal bleeding in her brain.

In her illustrious career, Zeenat Barkatullah served as the director of the production department as well as the dance and music departments at Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy.

She received acclaim performing Kathak, Bharatnatyam, Manipuri and folk dance. She acted in more than 80 small screen productions. She embarked on this path with the drama “Maria Amar Maria” in 1980, subsequently gracing productions like “Ghore Baire”, “Osthai Nibas”, “Boro Bari”, and “Kotha Bola Moyna,” leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

She received Ekushey Padak in 2022 for her contribution to dance.

She also received prestigious awards, including the UNESCO award, Natya Sabha Award, BACHSAS Award and Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy Award.