Late Shahanara Begum (Shunu)
Life of Late Shahanara Begum (Shunu)
Shahanara Begum, affectionately known as Shunu, was a woman of remarkable abilities and virtues. She was born in 1938 into a respected family, being the descendant of the late Mirza Ibrahim Hossain, a British Deputy Magistrate in Mirza Mahal. Her upbringing in such a distinguished household instilled in her a deep sense of duty and responsibility, which she upheld throughout her life.
Shahanara Begum Shunu was not only a devoted wife but also a nurturing mother. She was married to Md. Shah Alam, who was born in 1929 and served as a superintendent of customs for the Bangladesh Government until his retirement in 1978. Despite his untimely passing, she remained resolute, raising their children with the same values and principles that she herself was raised with.
Shahanara Begum Shunu was a proud matriarch, blessed with four sons: Shahid Bin Alam Jewel, married to Sayeda Nasira; Md. Shoeb Bin Alam Jame; Md. Shohel Alam, married to Laila Karishma, a schoolteacher; and Md. Shakil Bin Alam, married to Nazmun Nahar. Each son inherited their mother’s resilience and determination, carving successful paths for themselves. Her only daughter, Nahid Sultana, serves as the principal of Shashi Bhusan High School and has followed in her mother’s footsteps by also serving as a former Panel Mayor at Khulna City Corporation. Nahid’s accomplishments are a testament to Shahanara Begum Shunu’s adept parenting and the robust foundation she established for her children. Nahid is married to Maksud Alam Khaza, a successful businessman and a freedom-fighter.
Shahanara Begum Shunu’s husband departed his life on November 4, 1994, and she herself left us on October 6, 2008. Shunu’s life was a tapestry woven from a multitude of roles – she was a loving daughter, a committed wife, and a tender-hearted mother. Each role contributed a unique thread to her life’s tapestry, culminating in a splendid portrayal of a life fully lived. Her legacy lives on through her descendants and the countless hearts she touched with her kindness.
Despite the obstacles she encountered, Shahanara Begum Shunu remained unyielding, drawing strength from her affection for her family. Her life is a testament to the power of tenacity and the enduring spirit of a woman who refused to be confined by her circumstances.
In conclusion, Shahanara Begum Shunu’s life was a symphony of love, resilience, and talent. Her story serves as a beacon, reminding us of the power of determination and the significance of remaining faithful to one’s passions. As we remember Shahanara Begum Shunu, we celebrate not just her life, but the values and principles she embodied. Her legacy continues to inspire and guide us, resonating in the lives of her children who continue to honor her memory.
A list of five children, arranged from oldest to youngest:
(1) Shahid Bin Alam Jewel; (2) Md. Shoeb Bin Alam Jame; (3) Nahid Sultana; (4) Md. Shohel Alam; (5) Md. Shakil Bin Alam.
3rd Generation; 4th Generation; Children
- Shahid Bin Alam Jewel – two sons: (a) Sharif Shourav; (b) Shabab Alam
- Md. Shoeb Bin Alam Jame;
- Nahid Sultana – three daughters: (a) Asrafun Alam Mouli; (b) Tafannum Tasnim Moytree (deceased); (c) Makamam Mahmuda Oyshee;
- Md. Shohel Alam;
- Md. Shakil Bin Alam – one daughter: (a) Saraban Salwaa Silmee, and one son (b) Sharif Shahbaz Bin Shakeel Nowshad;