In the busy streets of Bogura city, Bangladesh, an elderly woman named Setara Begum sits quietly among the constant rush of people. Her face, marked by deep lines, reflects a life full of struggles and loss. With a small plastic mug in front of her, she waits patiently, hoping for some kindness from those passing by. Despite her old age making her movements slow and difficult, her spirit remains strong.
For the last ten years, Setara Begum’s routine has centered around this very spot on the roadside. Every day, she depends on the generosity of strangers to get by. Each coin dropped into her mug is a small contribution to her daily survival. Unfortunately, she’s unable to even count the money she receives, living as though she’s merely waiting for her final days, forgotten by the fast-moving world around her.
Setara Begum’s heartbreaking story began 52 years ago during Bangladesh’s War of Independence. During this time, she lost her entire family—her husband and children were killed, leaving her completely alone. With no one left to rely on, she now lives a lonely life, sharing a rented house with her elder sister, Hosne Ara, in the heart of Bogura city.
Despite the hardships she endures, Setara Begum’s cries for help have been ignored. She has visited local government offices and the commissioner’s office multiple times, but nothing has changed. She’s not even eligible for the government’s old-age pension. Left with no other option, she spends her days on the street, relying on the kindness of strangers for survival.
People in the neighborhood, like Md. Kofil Uddin and Yasin Ali, confirm that Setara is a daily presence on the roadside. They see her struggle and recognize that her life is sustained only by the charity of others. Yet, despite the visible struggle, she remains unnoticed by those in authority who make empty promises but offer no real help.
Hosne Ara, Setara’s sister, expresses her sadness over the situation. She emphasizes that their family has disappeared, leaving them to depend only on each other. Even though they are registered voters in ward number 12, they feel completely ignored by local leaders.
The councilor of ward number 12, Enamul Haque Suman, admits that Setara Begum’s situation is unfortunate, but he shifts responsibility by claiming that she actually lives in ward number 11. However, Setara’s nephew, Wasim Khan, insists they are permanent residents and voters of ward number 12, rejecting the councilor’s claim.
Amidst the lack of care from the government and the unhelpful attitude of officials, Setara Begum’s fight to survive carries on. Her story is a powerful reminder of the ongoing suffering faced by those on the edges of society. It highlights the urgent need for more compassion and real support for people in need. As Setara Begum sits on the roadside each day, her quiet strength speaks volumes about the human spirit’s incredible ability to withstand even the toughest challenges.
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