Nasreen Jahan is a prominent figure in the world of Bengali fiction. In the stories and novels of this acclaimed author, human psychology and the complexities of relationships are reflected with great subtlety. Her work weaves together reality, surrealism, and magical realism, and she demonstrates an enviable mastery in the use of fairy tales and myths.

Nasreen Jahan’s new novel, "Phoenix Tomake Mayabasi", is set to be published soon. The aesthetic cover for the novel has been designed by Anisuzzaman Sohel.

The cover unveiling ceremony for the upcoming novel took place on Friday afternoon at the Bengal Shilpalaya in Dhanmondi.

The event was presided over by the renowned writer Hasnat Abdul Hai. Discussions on Nasreen Jahan’s literary body of work were led by essayist, researcher, and fiction writer Faizul Latif Chowdhury, along with novelists and short story writers Parvez Hossain and Selim Morshed. The speakers highlighted the defining characteristics of Nasreen Jahan’s entire literary oeuvre. Nasreen Jahan, who has been battling cancer for a long time, also spoke about her own writing.

Mazharul Islam, the Chief Executive of ‘Onyaprokash’—the publishing house for the book—was also present.

The speakers noted that Nasreen Jahan’s stories and novels are particularly distinguished by their exploration of human psychology, the intricacies of relationships, the blend of reality and surrealism, and the integration of fairy tales and myths. These elements are also reflected in her new novel, *Phoenix Tomake Mayabasi*.

Hasnat Abdul Hai remarked, “One cannot separate Nasreen Jahan’s writing from her life. What fascinates me most, however, is the way she has lived. She has embraced life as a celebration. Although her illness has somewhat slowed the pace of her life, it has not altered its essential spirit.” She remains vibrant, cheerful, and full of wit. For the past two years, Nasreen Jahan has been battling a severe illness, spending time alternating between the hospital and her home. Maintaining one’s inner strength and a sense of normalcy amidst a long and complex medical ordeal is nearly impossible—yet, Nasreen has managed to make the difficult seem easy and the impossible, possible.

He further added, “Today’s event centers on the life and literary work of Nasreen Jahan. While the unveiling of a novel’s cover served as the immediate occasion, the scope of this gathering is far broader; it reflects the deep love and respect people hold for her.”

Parvez Hossain remarked, “Nasreen’s literary hallmarks were already evident in her early works. Although she later explored surrealist themes, she cannot be defined merely by such labels.” He explained, “Nasreen discovers an underlying existence—a life that persists beneath the one she observes, experiences, and imagines. In her efforts to capture this hidden reality, her entire being becomes intertwined with her writing. The distinct quality of her literature lies in her ability to reveal not just the visible lives of her characters, but the inner lives that lie beneath—an endeavor in which she has achieved great success.”

Speaking at the event, Nasreen Jahan shared, “While writing about death, I realized that the act of writing—and remaining connected to people—is what keeps me alive.” Expressing her objection to being labeled a “feminist novelist,” she noted, “It is not just feminism; it is a human awakening. If humanity itself is awakening, why must women be expected to awaken separately?”

Regarding the identity and surnames of women, she questioned, “Why should men be permitted to carry their parents’ surnames while women are not? There is no need for a woman to lose her own identity upon marriage.” On her writing process, she added, “I handle all the editing, spelling, and word choices in my work myself—I even coin new words whenever I feel the need.”

Mazharul Islam remarked, “Nasreen Jahan has been dedicated to the pursuit of literature for a very long time.” He is a very close associate of Anyaprakash and serves as the literary editor for *Anyadin*. Many of his books have been published by Anyaprakash. The dedication and commitment he has demonstrated through his tireless literary pursuits are well-reflected in his novel *Phoenix Tomake Mayabashi*, which, I trust, will stand as yet another shining example of his work.

The cover unveiling ceremony was organised by the publishing house Anyaprakash. The novel’s aesthetic cover was designed by Anisuzzaman Sohel.