Late Rawnak Ara Begum (Renu)
The Life and Work of the Late Rawnak Ara Begum (Renu)
Rawnak Ara Begum, affectionately known as Renu, was a woman of diverse talent. Born to the late Mirza Ibrahim Hossain, a British Deputy Magistrate residing in Mirza Mahal Daulatpur, Khulna, Bangladesh, she was the heir to a rich cultural legacy that profoundly influenced her life and works.
Rawnak Ara Begum Renu’s journey into the world of handcraft began at a young age. She was fascinated by the intricate designs and patterns that could be created with just a few simple materials. Her father, recognizing her talent, encouraged her to pursue her passion. This support, combined with her natural talent, allowed her to master the art of handcraft.
As she grew older, Rawnak Ara Begum Renu’s skills only improved. She became known for her ability to create beautiful and intricate designs, each one a testament to her creativity and attention to detail. Her work was not only beautiful but also imbued with a deep sense of cultural heritage. Each piece told a story, a reflection of her love for her culture and her desire to share it with the world.
Rawnak Ara Begum Renu’s legacy transcends her professional achievements. As a devoted mother to her five children – two sons, Mosharrof Hosain Bony and Ashek Hosain Jhony, and three daughters, Farhat Hoq Anne, Farkunda Akter Eliza, and Humaira Akhter Lisa – she fostered a strong family bond despite the vast geographical distances between them. With Mosharrof Hosain Bony residing in Khulna, Bangladesh, Ashek Hosain Jhony in Spain, Anne in Canada, Eliza in Dhaka, Bangladesh, and Lisa in the USA, their unity remained unshaken. Rawnak Ara Begum Renu imparted a profound respect for their cultural roots and a passion for handicrafts to her children, ensuring the endurance of her legacy.
Mosharrof Hosain Bony, formerly a UK resident now living in Khulna, Bangladesh, is wed to Nasrin Akter Bina. He frequently mentions how his mother’s passion for handicrafts has been a significant influence in his life. Ashek Hosain Jhony, residing in Spain, is engaged in business.
Anne, Eliza, and Lisa, daughters of Rawnak Ara Begum Renu, are committed to preserving their mother’s legacy. Anne, currently residing in Canada with her spouse Mohammad Apurbo Hoq, formerly lived in the USA. She keeps her mother’s memory alive by frequently showcasing her artwork. They are enthusiastic about Bangladeshi cultural events. Anne previously held the position of Senior Vice President at the Bangladesh Cultural Academy (BCA) in the USA, while her husband Apurbo served as the General Secretary of the same institution. Both are now members of KONON in Canada. Eliza, based in Dhaka, Bangladesh, and married to Rashedul Hasan, a former customs officer, operates Eliza’s Home Decor. Lisa, who has made her home in the USA, owns a renowned franchise called Subway and is the ex-Treasurer of the Bangladesh Cultural Academy (BCA).
In conclusion, Late Rawnak Ara Begum Renu was more than just an expert in handcraft. She was a loving mother, a proud daughter, and a cultural ambassador. Her legacy lives on in her children and in every piece of handcraft she created. Through her work, she shared a piece of her culture with the world, and through her children, she ensured that her passion for handcraft would continue to inspire future generations. She may no longer be with us, but her spirit lives on, a testament to her life and work.
A list of five children, arranged from oldest to youngest:
(1) Farhat Hoq Anne; (2) Mosharrof Hossain Bony; (3) Farkunda Akter Eliza; (4) Ashek Hossain Jhony; (5) Humaira Akhter Lisa;
3rd Generation; 4th Generation; Children
- Farhat Hoq Anne – one daughter: (a) Dania Hoq, married to Raisul Haque, resides in the USA; and one son: (b) Atul Hoq, also resides in the USA.
- Mosharrof Hossain Bony – two son: (a) Abir Hossain Ovi and (b) Tahsin Hossain
- Farkunda Akter Eliza – two daughters: (a) Farhia Hasan Mohua and (b) Kashfia Hasan Madhobi, resides in Canada and one son (c) Rakin Hasan Mahi, also resides in Canada
- Ashek Hossain Jhony – one son: (a) Salman Hossain Rakesh, and one daughter: (b) Maliha Hossain Dona, resides in Spain.
- Humaira Akhter Lisa
4th Generation; 5th Generation; Children
- (a) Dania Hoq – one daughter: (a) Fiona Ameera Haque, resides in the USA.
- (a) Abir Hossain Ovi – one daughter: (a) Ariba Nuzhat Rufaida and one son: (b) Farshid Hossain Ruwaid