SPOTLIGHT

"For me being able to have a say in my own life is independence. My business may not be a grand one but at least I don't have to live by anyone else's rules."

ANWARA BEGUM BANI
Toy Vendor

Photo: Prabir Das

"We may have achieved our independence in 1971, but many people are still struggling for their basic rights. We will achieve true independence when we can overcome these problems as a nation and will get to live in a true democratic country."
MEHZABEEN ALAM CHOWDHURY AKHI
Teacher, Freedom Fighter

Photo: Prabir Das

"Independence is being able to live as one big happy nation."
MILON CHAKROBARTI
Purohit (Hindu Priest)

Photo: Prabir Das

"To me, independence is not about breaking rules; rather, it's about having the courage of making rules. Independence is being able to ride my bi-cycle wherever I want, whenever I want."
TAHIA SHAMSUL
Banker

Photo: Prabir Das

"I don't demand much from my life. Earning two square meals a day in an assured and respectful manner and ensuring a happy and comfortable living for my family- that's what I call independence."
BODIUR RAHMAN SHEIKH
Security Guard

Photo: Prabir Das

"Independence is everyone's basic right. For me, live and let live is the true essence of independence."
RIMJHIM RASHID
SSC Candidate

Photo: Prabir Das

"Independence to me is being able to say and do the right thing and also being celebrated for it. As an individual I have always felt independent as I have had wonderful people around me, guiding me to do the right thing and rejoicing in the right choices I have made."
FARHA DEEBA SUFIAN 
Entrepreneur

Photo: Prabir Das

"Being able to do what one loves to do is independence."
HASSAN
Motorcycle Mechanic

Photo: Prabir Das

"Independence is being able to drive without worrying about being blown up by petrol bombs."
ANWAR HOSSAIN
Bus Driver

Photo: Prabir Das

"As a young female professional, to gain the respect of my peers, and to be treated as an equal without having my value undermined because I am a woman means independence to me."
LAXMI KARMAKER
Doctor

Photo: Prabir Das

"To me, independence means to accept society's changes positively and being able to do things that I love without being forced into doing anything."
FAYSAL AHMED
Florist