Shamim Ara Nipa, a renowned Bangladeshi dance director and choreographer, was honoured on April 29 at the National Theatre Hall of the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA). On the occasion of International Dance Day, the event was jointly organised by the Bangladesh Dance Artists' Association and BSA.
The founder of Dhaka Theatre and Bangladesh Gram Theatre, and Freedom fighter Nasiruddin Yousuff Bachchu handed over the award to Nipa.
Nipa was awarded the honour in recognition of her outstanding contributions to Bangladeshi dance. She has been a pioneer in introducing a new style of folk and creative dance to the country since the 1980s. She has also presented, directed, and performed Bangladesh's traditional dance forms in over 50 countries, including at important state events.
Nipa has directed nearly 15 dance dramas and over 200 solo dances, earning her widespread acclaim as a successful dance director. In 2017, she was awarded the Ekushey Padak, one of Bangladesh's highest civilian honours, for her distinguished contributions to the arts and dance.
Nipa expressed her gratitude for the honour, saying, "I am truly overwhelmed. I have always received awards from outside, but when your own people honour you it adds a different dimension. I am sincerely grateful to the Bangladesh Dance Artists' Association, especially Minu Apa. The Bangladesh Dance Artists' Association is doing a lot of good work.”
“I may not always be able to be there, but I want more fundamental work to be done through this organisation. I respect all the dance warriors who are dedicating their lives to this dance. My heartfelt love to all the dance-loving audience. May Allah bless everybody," she added.
