I am an atheist. I do not believe in prayers, I believe in work. And my work is that of an author. My pen is my weapon.

In traditional societies, we have a long legacy of men controlling the body and mind of women. Such societies have valorised motherhood and fabricated concepts like chastity. Women have been the victims of these notions for thousands of years.

Religious fundamentalists in Bangladesh have always argued for a ban on my books.

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.

I believe in absolute freedom of expression. Everyone has a right to offend and be offended.

I have lectured at the U.N. and travelled widely, giving lectures on human rights and gender inequalities in universities. But this is a life I do not wish to live. I don't want to be a showcase, I want to be in a battlefield where I can stand beside the oppressed and the poor.

Nature says women are human beings, men have made religions to deny it. Nature says women are human beings, men cry out no!