With divorce rates steadily climbing in Bangladesh, more women are finding themselves in the role of single mothers, facing challenges that test their resilience.
From financial struggles to societal stigma, their stories highlight both the hardships and the strength required to rebuild their lives while ensuring a better future for their children.
Tamanna Tithi (name changed for privacy), 32, lives in Badda with her six-year-old son.
Sharing her story, she said, “No woman chooses divorce willingly. In our society, a woman living alone is looked down upon. After my divorce, I realised how people can turn away so easily. My family is not by my side, but I believe it is better to accept the pain all at once than to stay in a toxic relationship that slowly poisons you.”
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Despite the isolation, Tamanna has found mental peace and believes self-reliance is the key to navigating life’s ups and downs.
For Rehnuma Disha (not her real name), a 34-year-old living in Mirpur, her separation was driven by constant disagreement and mental abuse from her in-laws.
“We tried to make the relationship work, but it was unbearable. My parents help with my daughter while I work, but I still face criticism. Not everyone can stand up for themselves, and even when you do, it doesn’t always help,” she explained.
Like Tamanna, Rehnuma sees self-sufficiency as essential, but acknowledges the emotional toll of single motherhood.
Esha Karim, 35, offers another perspective on the struggles of balancing work and childcare.
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Living in Banshree with her five-year-old daughter, Esha found it increasingly difficult to manage both. “I had to hire help, but my daughter refused to stay with anyone else, crying every time. I’ve sent her to her father’s house for now and visit her when I can. It’s heartbreaking, but I have no other choice,” she said, highlighting the difficult decisions many single mothers must make.
Sajia Sabrina (not real name), 36, faced an abrupt breakup due to her husband’s betrayal. Now living in Mohammadpur with her parents and children, she struggles to rebuild her life.
“I never worked after marriage, and at my age, finding a job is difficult. I’ve started sewing to earn some income. I teach my children and try to stay positive, but it’s not easy,” she shared.
Sajia emphasised the importance of maintaining a healthy relationship with an ex-partner for the sake of the children, even after divorce.
Rising Divorce Rates
Statistics from the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) reveal a steady rise in divorce rates.
A report published on 31 January 2024 indicated that the rate fluctuated between 0.6% and 1.1% from 2006 to 2021, increasing to 1.4% in 2022, according to the Bangladesh Sample Vital Statistics-2022 report.
Expert Insights
Tawhidul Haque, a faculty member of Dhaka University’s Institute of Social Welfare and Research, believes the rise in divorce reflects changing societal attitudes.
“We shouldn’t judge anyone’s life based on the label of divorce. Women becoming self-reliant is a big factor, as dependency weakens the mind,” he explained.
Haque also highlighted the stigma faced by children of divorced parents, urging the state to promote modern thinking and support systems.
“It’s important to ensure children are not negatively affected by divorce and to foster a positive attitude towards such realities,” he added.
While divorce is never an ideal outcome, it is often a necessary step towards preserving mental health and dignity, experts said.
With changing societal attitudes and growing support for single mothers, these women are finding strength in adversity, paving the way for a more inclusive and understanding society, according to the experts.