68 Quotes by Taslima Nasrin

I want to live in Kolkata; I don’t want to live in Europe – I can’t write there. I write in Bengali, and I need to be surrounded by the Bengali language and culture.

There is no such thing as a ‘superior’ or ‘inferior’ culture, there are only various cultural patterns which make up this beautiful, multicolored mosaic.

When I write, I don’t allow the fear of consequences to interfere with the writing process. I have in the past paid for my commitment to the truth and the way I live my life. I am prepared to pay more if I have to.

Religion, society and state – from none of these do women get their proper honor. It is religion, which has created an unparalleled disparity between men and women.

Among all the ‘awards’ that I have hitherto collected, I consider the title of ‘patita’ or ‘fallen woman’ to be the highest. This is an achievement of my long-struggling life as a writer and as a woman.

I support the rights of all people to practice their religious beliefs privately, but I oppose the idea of respecting religions. In truth, I have no respect for any religion. I believe religion is not compatible with human rights, women’s rights, or freedom of expression.

Sheikh Hasina’s government is one of the best Bangladesh has ever had. She is taking action against fundamentalists. But even she refused to let me return. I don’t think I can ever return home.

Let humanity be the other name for religion.

Religion is now the first obstacle to women’s advancement. Religion pulls human beings backwards, it goes against science and progressiveness. Religion engulfs people with a fear of the supernatural. It bars people from laughing and never allows people to exercise their choice.