Taslima Nasrin landed at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport on 27 September 2026, the first time she visited Kolkata since the state government’s change. She told reporters from the West Bengal Cultural Forum that she will remain until Mahalaya and watch the Durga Puja celebrations at Eden Gardens, citing her love for the festival as a "grand art exhibition".
During the interview Nasrin highlighted the events slated for 9 and 11 October, saying she would attend Mahajati Sadan’s opening and the subsequent processions. She also remarked that unlike Kolkata, Bangladesh has seen “continual vandalism of Durga idols by extremist fundamentalists for years,” urging the country’s authorities to act decisively.
The author called on the Bangladeshi government to take stern measures against radical militants, describing them as “jihadist groups that have flourished under successive regimes.” She added that eradicating such elements is essential for Bangladesh’s safety and civilization, and that Mughal‑era temples would be protected if the state intervened.
When asked about Tarek Rahaman’s potential visit to India, Nasrin said she was uncertain of the outcome, citing Rahaman’s “indulgence of Jamaat‑e‑Islam” and failure to confront jihadists. A local vendor who had heard the discussion added that the presence of the author “brings tourists and boosts local commerce” during the Puja season, underscoring how cultural visits can impact everyday livelihoods.
The next step will see Nasrin remain in Kolkata through Mahalaya and observe the 2027 Puja, while her call for action in Bangladesh may prompt the government to review its security protocols. The author’s statement is expected to influence diplomatic dialogues between India and Bangladesh in the coming weeks.