Bijoy Phool – The flower of victory

Today’s Concept can be Tomorrow’s Tradition

Emdad Rahman: “Bijoyphool” (the flower of victory) is the symbol of victory of Bangladesh’s liberation war. In light of the historical significance of the Poppy appeal and as a way of remembrance for all the national heroes, the wonderfully acclaimed Poet Shamim Azad was inspired and began highlighting her thoughts and ideas about the “Bijoyphool”.

This strictly non political initiative has now become a growing social campaign which is fast spreading and gaining popularity at an astonishing rate.

Over the last few years, Bangladeshis have been donning the ”Bijoyphool” during the month of December and this has created a great sense of belonging to Bangladeshis. I met Shamim Azad today after a long time and asked her about the inspiration for her brainchild. She told me: “This initiative is fast becoming an icon of our great liberation war.  

“Many have advised that we should mass produce, but I have resisted. I feel it is beautiful that each phool is hand made and has a personal touch. Slowly, but surely we will spread the message.”

Shamim also pinned my coat with my very own ”Bijoyphool,” which I’m proudly modelling in the picture below. Historically my own family are staunch patriots and I’m backing this wonderful initiative.

Like previous years the campaign of wearing “Bijoyphool” is being observed from 1st -16th December.

Irrespective of your location one can organise or participate with this campaign. You can join simply logging into http://www.bijoyphool.com/. You can also print the “Phool,” reading the guidance section on the site. It is also recommended that you can invite a Freedom Fighter to tell stories to an audience and arrange “Phool” making workshops.

Under no circumstances can funds be collected in relation to “Bijoyphool”

For more information please call 07512122172, 07828016410

Send an e-mail to bijoyphool@gmail.com