| Zeenat Barkatullah | |
| Native Name: | জিনাত বরকতুল্লাহ |
| Native Name Lang: | bn |
| Death Place: | Dhaka, Bangladesh |
| Nationality: | Bangladeshi |
| Occupation: | Dance artist, choreographer, administrator |
| Children: | 2, including Bijori Barkatullah |
| Spouses: | Mohammad Barkatullah |
| Alma Mater: | University of Dhaka |
| Awards: | Full list |
Zeenat Barkatullah (died 20 September 2023)[1] was a Bangladeshi dancer and television actress.[2] She received Bachsas Awards, Bangladesh Cultural Society Lifetime Achievement Award and Natyashabha Award for her contributions to the field of dance.[2]
Mrs Barkatullah was born in Munshiganj (former Bikrampur) district who was a student of Gazi Alimuddin Mannan at the age of 4.[3] She earned her master's degree in sociology from the University of Dhaka and joined the Performing Arts Academy.[4] She completed a six-year certificate course from Bulbul Lalitakala Academy and later in ballet and dance choreography under experts from North Korea.[2] Her father was the deputy magistrate of Jamalpur District.[5]
Barkatullah worked as one of the directors of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy beginning in 2002.[2] She acted in around 80 television drama plays.[2] Her acting career began with the drama Maria Amar Maria in 1980.[3] She later acted in Ghore Baire, Osthai Nibas, Boro Bari, and Kotha Bola Moyna, among others.[3]
Barkatullah was one of the advisors of Bangladesh Nrityo Shilpi Songstha, Nrityanchal and Bangabandhu Shishu Kishor Mela.[4]
On 22 January 2022, Barkatullah was awarded the Ekushey Padak, the second most important award for civilians in Bangladesh.[6]
Barkatullah had two daughters, including actress Bijori Barkatullah and Kajori Barkatullah.[7] [8] [4]
Zeenat Barkatullah died on 20 September 2023.[9]