Celebrities protest by posting photos with numbers written on their hands and cheeks

Suddenly, various numbers are appearing on the Facebook posts of popular female celebrities in the country. On hands, cheeks, or other parts of the body, some have written ‘9’, others ‘24’, ‘1000’ or ‘99+’. Netizens have begun widespread discussion about the meaning behind these numbers.

Initially, many thought it might be a new project or promotional campaign. However, the reality behind the numbers is harsh. In a movement called ‘My Number, My Rules’, actors, models, musicians, and other well-known figures from the local entertainment industry have united to raise awareness against digital violence and cyberbullying.

They are revealing through their photos how many times they face harassment online every day.

The first to speak up was actress Nusrat Imrose Tisha. On 25 November, she posted a photo on her Facebook page showing a large ‘9’ on her cheek. In the caption, she revealed that she experiences at least nine instances of cyber harassment daily. She wrote, “People may see just a number, but behind it lies my daily struggle, fear, and humiliation.”

Following Tisha, many others joined in. Actress Runa Khan posted ‘24’, Shabnam Faria ‘1000’, Prarthana Fardin Dighi ‘3’, Moushumi Hamid ‘72’, and musicians Sajia Sultana Putul and Ashna Habib Bhavna shared ‘9’ and ‘99+’.

Though the numbers are shocking, they reflect reality. The women aim to highlight the extent of online abuse, insults, and psychological harassment they face daily.

Actress Moushumi Hamid wrote ‘72’ on her cheek, while Runa Khan wrote ‘24’ on her palm. She said, “Not only celebrities, but ordinary women also face countless online harassment every day. In the past ten years, social media has reached many people rapidly, yet many have not learned proper usage.”

Bhavna, with ‘99+’ on her cheek, encouraged women through her caption: “Tell your number’s story, raise your voice louder.” She also noted that, especially after 5 August, the online environment for women has become more unsafe.

As part of an international campaign against digital violence, this ‘My Number, My Rules’ movement will run for 16 days in Bangladesh. Celebrities aim to highlight societal problems more strongly by sharing their experiences through numbers.

The call to everyone is simple: do not remain silent; let numbers speak as your protest.

Khaborwala/TSN