# Syeda Zameerunnissa Begum

Syeda Zameerunnissa Begum also spelled as Syeda Zamirunessa, popularly known as Aala-Sahiba or Bismillah Begum (1837–1926) was a socialite, writer and social worker in the 19th and early 20th-century Bengal, known for her intellect, social contributions, and literary works. She was a distinguished member of the Munshibari family of Comilla and played an influential role in her community as an educator, philanthropist, and writer. She was a regular contributor to the Bamabodhini Patrika, a monthly journal that was published from 1863 to 1922 to educate Bengali women and to publish books and journals for them.

## Early life and background

Syeda Zameerunnissa Begum was born in 1837 into the prominent Munshibari family of Comilla, British Bengal. She was the eldest of the two daughters of Munshi Syed Mohammad Mukkaram, a noted figure of his time and his wife Hafizunessa Begum. Syed Qumbar Ali Khan Bahadur was Zameerunnissa's grandfather. Raised in an intellectually stimulating environment, Zameerunnissa and her sister Makbulannissa achieved an exceptional level of education for the women of their time, enabling them to engage in literary and social pursuits.
She married Syed Mohammed Shaminuddin Ahmed, the Sub-Judge of Midnapore Sessions Court, and became a key figure in managing her family's estates. Her marriage brought her into a life of responsibility and influence, which she embraced with determination. Zameerunnissa's grandchildren include Ibrahim Suhrawardy and Begum Badar un nissa Akhtar.

## Social contributions

Zameerunnissa Begum was deeply involved in the administration of her family’s jagirs (land grants) and estates. Known for her stern yet just demeanor, she effectively managed the properties of her father and in-laws, ensuring their prosperity and smooth functioning.
During the recurring cholera epidemics in Bengal, Zameerunnissa, along with her niece, Khujista Akhtar Banu (the mother of Huseyn Shaheed Suhrawardy, a future prime minister of Pakistan), actively participated in relief efforts. They visited affected areas to educate people about sanitation practices, significantly contributing to the community's welfare during times of crisis.

### Literary pursuits

Zameerunnissa was an accomplished writer and poet. Her literary works, though not widely published, reflected her intellectual depth and sensitivity to the social issues of her time. Writing primarily in Bengali and Urdu, she used poetry as a medium to express her thoughts on life, faith, and human values. She was referred to as Gosha Nasheen Qanj i Azlat Mutakaf Hasar Naudat fadiya Huzur Aala Sahib Syeda Zameerunnissa Begum Sahiba

### Medical knowledge and community service

In addition to her literary and administrative skills, Zameerunnissa possessed knowledge of traditional medicine. She often treated the sick and provided medical advice to those in need. Her compassionate approach to health and her hands-on involvement in community service endeared her to many.
Syeda Zameerunnissa Begum lived a life of service, intellect, and determination. Her contributions to literature, community health, and estate management left a lasting impact on the people around her. She died in 1926, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and philanthropy.
Her life serves as a testament to the role of educated and empowered women in the socio-economic and cultural fabric of Bengal during the colonial period.