Staff Correspondent: The Jalalabad Association of America Inc., one of the leading social organisations representing people from greater Sylhet living in the United States, hosted its much-anticipated ‘Summer Bash’ in a vibrant and festive atmosphere.

The event brought together Bangladeshi expatriates from Sylhet and their families, creating a lively gathering aimed at preserving cultural traditions, strengthening community bonds and promoting friendship and harmony among the expatriate community.

The programme was organised under the overall leadership of Association President Moinul Islam and General Secretary Ataul Gani Asad. A dedicated celebration committee worked to ensure the smooth and successful execution of the event.

The committee was led by Convener Sheikh Jamal Hossain, Chief Convener Laies Ahmed (Minu), Chief Coordinator Moin Uz Zaman Chowdhury, and Member Secretary Helim Uddin. Kamrul Hossain and Shahinul Islam served as Joint Member Secretaries. Other members of the celebration committee included A. Rahim (Kadir), Zainal Uddin Layek, Masuk Mia, Syed Lokman, Badrul Uddin, and Dewan Md. Tazzir.

Taking a break from their busy lives in the United States, expatriate Bangladeshis attended the Summer Bash with their families in large numbers. The event featured social gatherings, friendly conversations, family activities, colourful stalls and a vibrant cultural programme.

The cultural segment featured popular artists from Bangladesh, the United Kingdom and the local Bangladeshi community, who entertained the audience with a variety of songs. Performers included Selim Chowdhury, Rizia Parvin, Kamruzzaman Bakul, Wahid from London, Shah Mahbub, Baul Kala Mia, Nasir Uddin, Roksana Mirza, Nazu Akand, Aftab Johnny, Silma, and Apu Rahman’s group.

The event was further energised by the event management and sound system provided by Soundgear, contributing to the overall festive atmosphere. Around 20 colourful stalls were also set up at the venue, attracting considerable attention from visitors. The stalls added a fair-like dimension to the celebration and provided another attraction for families attending the programme.

According to the organisers, one of the main objectives of the event was to introduce the younger generation of expatriate Bangladeshis to their cultural heritage, traditions and roots. The organisers also emphasised the importance of such gatherings in strengthening social connections and fostering unity among the greater Sylhet community in the United States.

Through the collective efforts of the celebration committee and the enthusiastic participation of expatriate Bangladeshis, the Jalalabad Association of America’s ‘Summer Bash’ became a memorable celebration of Sylheti culture, community and togetherness.

ORLANDO, Fla. — The Federation of Bangladeshi Associations in North America (FOBANA) held its 40th annual convention in Orlando over the Labor Day weekend, bringing together Bangladeshi-American community organizations, cultural performers, artists and guests from across North America. The three-day convention opened Friday with a gala dinner and opening ceremony. Media personality Shahidul Islam Shachu hosted the opening program, while Dr. Sultan S. Ahmed attended as chief guest.

The second day featured seminars, cultural programs and performances by member organizations and prominent Bangladeshi artists. The FOBANA theme song was performed by Dinat Jahan Munni and her group. The song’s lyrics and music were written and composed by Kabir Bokul. Artists who performed during Saturday’s main-stage program included Shamir Mahmud, Rafiq Ahmed Miton, Arzeen Kamal, Imran Mahmudul and Dilshaad Nahar Kona.

A key part of the convention was the Annual General Meeting, where delegates elected a new executive committee for the 2026-2028 term. Atiqur Rahman was elected chairman, while Niehal Rahim was elected executive secretary. Ziaul Haque Zia and Aminul Zinali Collins were elected executive vice presidents. Md. Shahab Uddin and Imran Jony Alam were elected joint secretaries, and Shahedul Islam Anjan was elected treasurer.

The AGM also approved the Bangladesh League of America, New York, as the host committee for the 2027 FOBANA convention. Several other recommendations from member organizations were also approved during the meeting. Organizers said 47 organizations registered for this year’s convention, with more than a dozen organizations from Florida participating in the Orlando gathering.

Sunday’s program began with additional seminars and activities involving member organizations. The main stage featured a tribute to the late Shotto Saha, a prominent figure in Bangladesh’s music and cultural community.

As part of the tribute, his son Imon Saha, a seven-time National Film Award winner of Bangladesh, performed in his father’s honor. FOBANA also presented a posthumous recognition to Shotto Saha, which was accepted by his wife, National Film Award-winning actress and performer Romola Saha, on behalf of the family.

The recognition was presented by performers Ankhi Alamgir and Dinat Jahan Munni alongside FOBANA leaders. The final evening featured performances by Ankhi Alamgir, Dinat Jahan Munni, Shazu Khadem, Zayed Khan, Shirin Shila, Itisha Chowdhury and singer Sanjay, known for performing at the opening ceremony of the World Cup. State and local officials also addressed attendees during the convention.

The 40th FOBANA Convention was hosted by Central Florida Bangladesh Shomiti. The Bangladesh Association of Florida, Central Florida Sports Club, World Fair and Feast USA Inc. and Bangladesh Society of Central Florida served as co-host organizations. The organizing team included Convenor Anwar Hossain Sentu, Member Secretary Russel Miah, Chief Coordinator Nazim Ullah Liton, Executive Member Secretary Murad Hossain, Executive President Shams Ahmed and Event Coordinator AKM Hossain Hitu.

The event was planned and designed by Shahid Islam Shachu, S.A. Haque Oilk and Tanzira Rashid. The convention concluded with FOBANA acknowledging the newly elected committee and thanking participating organizations, performers, delegates and guests for their contributions to the three-day gathering.

FLORIDA: The 41st Convention of the Federation of Bangladeshi Associations in North America (FOBANA), one of the largest organizations representing Bangladeshi communities in North America, will be held in New York next year. The Bangladesh League of America, New York, one of the oldest Bangladeshi organizations in the United States, has been selected as the host organization for the 2027 convention.

The announcement came during FOBANA’s Annual General Meeting held in Florida, where a new Executive Committee was elected for the next two years. Atiquer Rahman Atiq was elected Chairman of the new committee, while Ziaul Haque Zia and Aminul Jilani Collins were elected Vice Chairmen. Nehal Rahim was elected General Secretary. Md. Shahabuddin and Imran Jony Alam were elected Joint Secretaries, while Shahedul Islam Anjan was elected Treasurer.

The election of the new leadership is expected to bring renewed momentum to FOBANA’s organizational activities over the next two years. With the 41st FOBANA Convention scheduled to take place in New York in 2027, the new leadership will face significant organizational responsibilities in preparing for the major gathering of Bangladeshi Americans and their families from across North America.

Meanwhile, the 40th FOBANA Convention was held in Orlando, Florida, from September 4 to 6, bringing together Bangladeshi community members from different states across the United States and Canada. The three-day convention was held at the Holiday Inn Resort Kissimmee by the Parks in Kissimmee, Florida, featuring cultural programs, music, discussions, business networking, youth activities, women’s leadership programs and community recognition events.

The three-day convention officially began on Friday, September 4. Registration and exhibition activities began at 4 p.m., followed by a cultural parade and flag ceremony at 6 p.m. A business and leadership discussion was held at 8 p.m., bringing together business leaders and community representatives.

The opening events highlighted FOBANA’s four-decade journey, the unity of the North American Bangladeshi community, preservation of Bangladeshi culture and heritage, and the importance of engaging younger generations in community activities. FOBANA Convention President Mohammad Shamim Mridha emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation among Bangladeshi Americans. Convention Convener Anwar Hossain Sentu expressed appreciation to members of the community for their support in organizing the event. FOBANA Executive Committee Chairman Zahid Hasan and Executive Secretary Nehal Rahim also spoke about the convention, organizational activities and the future direction of FOBANA.

Saturday, September 5, was one of the busiest days of the convention. A Youth Innovation Summit was held at 10 a.m., focusing on youth leadership, innovation, technology, entrepreneurship and the future role of the younger generation within the North American Bangladeshi community. A Women in Leadership program followed at 1 p.m., bringing together Bangladeshi women from different professional and community backgrounds to discuss leadership, social engagement and their contributions to community development.

The major attraction of the evening was the cultural concert featuring popular Bangladeshi performers. According to the organizers’ published list, the participating artists included Imran Mahmudul, Dinat Jahan Munni, Protic Hassan, Dilshad Nahar Kona, Arzeen Kamal, Annana Yeasmin Ankon and Rafiq Ahmed Milton.

Actor Sazu Khadem, actress Pori Moni, singer Sania Sultana Liza and actress Srabasti Tinny were also promoted as participants or special guests of the convention. The performances of the popular artists turned Saturday night into a vibrant celebration of Bangladeshi music and culture, drawing enthusiastic participation from the Bangladeshi-American community.

Sunday, September 6, marked the final day of the three-day convention. The Community Awards ceremony was held at 11 a.m., recognizing individuals for their contributions to the Bangladeshi community. A vendor and business showcase was held at 2 p.m., giving participating entrepreneurs and service providers an opportunity to highlight their businesses and activities.

The convention concluded with a farewell luncheon at 4 p.m. One of the notable recognitions of the convention went to musician Nafeez Al Amin, who received a special award for his contribution to Bangla rock music. The recognition highlighted his contribution to the development and promotion of Bangla rock music.

The participation of well-known Bangladeshi artists was one of the major attractions of the 40th FOBANA Convention. Performances by Imran Mahmudul, Dinat Jahan Munni, Protic Hassan, Dilshad Nahar Kona, Arzeen Kamal, Annana Yeasmin Ankon and Rafiq Ahmed Milton generated considerable interest among attendees. Their performances brought the sound and atmosphere of Bangladesh to the diaspora, featuring contemporary Bangladeshi music and popular cultural performances. The presence of actors and other cultural personalities added another dimension to the three-day celebration. Direct interaction between artists and members of the audience further enhanced the festive atmosphere.

The 40th FOBANA Convention carried special significance as the organization marked four decades of its journey. For four decades, FOBANA has served as a platform for cultural connection, community networking and engagement among Bangladeshi communities across North America, while helping younger generations maintain ties with Bangladeshi culture and heritage. The return of the convention to Orlando after a long interval generated considerable enthusiasm among the local Bangladeshi community.

The host committee was led by President Mohammad Shamim Mridha, Convener Anwar Hossain Sentu, Member Secretary Russel Miah, Executive Member Secretary Murad Hossain, Chief Coordinator Nazim Ullah Liton and Event Management Convener A.K.M. Hossain Hitu, along with other committee members. The three-day gathering combined cultural activities with business discussions, leadership programs, youth initiatives, women’s leadership activities, community engagement and recognition programs.

The 40th FOBANA Convention in Orlando ultimately became a vibrant gathering of Bangladeshi Americans, celebrating music, culture, community and heritage while strengthening connections among Bangladeshis living across North America. With New York selected as the host city for the 41st FOBANA Convention in 2027 and a new executive leadership team now in place, attention is already turning toward the next chapter of FOBANA’s journey.

New York Correspondent: The upcoming election of the Bangladesh Society of New York, one of the largest organizations representing Bangladeshi immigrants in the United States, has become a major topic of discussion within New York’s Bangladeshi community. The election is scheduled for October 25, with approximately 35,000 members expected to be eligible to vote.

Candidates submitted their nomination papers on Sunday, September 6, at Queens Palace in Queens amid a festive atmosphere. More than a thousand supporters and activists attended the event, carrying banners and posters supporting their respective candidates and panels. Supporters also chanted slogans in favor of their preferred candidates.

The election is shaping up as a competitive contest between two major camps. The current president of the Bangladesh Society, Ataur Rahman Selim, and General Secretary Mohammad Ali are leading one panel. Challenging them are Azmal Hossain Kunu for president and Firoz Ahmed for general secretary.

Interestingly, both candidates contesting for the presidency are originally from Sylhet, Bangladesh, and are business partners in a restaurant business in New York. Despite their business partnership, they are now facing each other as political rivals in the community organization’s election. Syed Fazle Rabbi has submitted his nomination papers as the only independent candidate for the position of general secretary.

The Election Commission accepted nomination papers from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday. Chief Election Commissioner Abu Naser presided over the nomination process, assisted by Election Commissioners Badrul Hossain Khan, Shamsuddin Azad, Ruhul Amin Sarkar, Ahbab Chowdhury, Mithu Hamid and Mia Mohammad Dulal.

According to the Election Commission, nearly 300,000 Bangladeshis live in New York, while approximately 35,000 people have become members of the Bangladesh Society. Membership required a $20 fee, generating approximately $700,000 in membership revenue for the organization.

A total of 21 positions will be contested in this year’s election. Nomination fees range from $2,000 to $6,000, depending on the position. The nomination fee for president is $6,000, while candidates for general secretary must pay $5,000. Candidates running for member positions are required to pay a $2,000 nomination fee.

The unusually high nomination fees have sparked considerable discussion within the community. Many observers say the amount required to run for office in a nonprofit community organization is notable, particularly when compared with the overall cost of participating in the election.

The presidential and general secretary nomination fees of $6,000 and $5,000, respectively, have drawn particular attention. Beyond nomination fees, candidates and their supporters are expected to spend significant amounts on campaign activities, meetings and rallies, posters, banners, social media promotion and other election-related activities.

As a result, the Bangladesh Society election is increasingly being viewed as one of the most expensive community elections in the history of New York’s Bangladeshi community, particularly in terms of nomination and campaign expenses.

The final outcome will be determined through voting on October 25. As election day approaches, campaign activities are expected to intensify, with competing panels and candidates increasing their outreach and mobilization efforts across the community.

NEW YORK — A protest rally was held in New York demanding an end to persecution of minority communities in Bangladesh, an impartial investigation and swift justice in the killing of retired Rangpur teacher Ganapati Chakraborty and four members of his family, the release of political prisoners, restoration of political rights, protection of freedom of expression, and measures to control the soaring prices of essential commodities.

The rally, organized by Probashi Bangladeshi American, was held on September 2 at Diversity Plaza in Jackson Heights, Queens. Speakers said no citizen should be deprived of security or justice because of their religion, ethnicity, political identity or social status. They called on the state to ensure the life, liberty and constitutional rights of every citizen.

The killing of Ganapati Chakraborty and four members of his family received particular attention at the rally. Speakers said such a brutal attack on an entire family cannot be ignored and called for a prompt and impartial investigation to identify those responsible and bring them to justice.

Speakers expressed concern over what they described as growing incidents of attacks, persecution, killings and sexual violence against members of minority communities in Bangladesh. They warned that failure to ensure proper investigations and justice could embolden perpetrators and further increase insecurity among ordinary citizens. They urged the authorities to guarantee the constitutional rights and security of all citizens without discrimination.

The speakers also expressed their dissatisfaction with Bangladesh’s ongoing political situation. They called for the release of political prisoners, the withdrawal of restrictions on political activities, and the holding of a free, fair and credible election with the participation of all political parties.

According to the speakers, genuine democratic development is not possible without ensuring citizens’ voting rights and meaningful political participation. The country’s economic situation was also discussed at the rally. Speakers said the sharp rise in the prices of essential goods has made everyday life increasingly difficult for ordinary people. They called for effective measures to stabilize the market and bring the prices of essential commodities within the reach of consumers. They also alleged that failure to control the market and what they described as government indifference were contributing to the growing hardship faced by the public.

The rally was chaired by Pradip Kar, an adviser to the U.S. Awami League. Among those who addressed the gathering were U.S. Awami League Organizing Secretary Abdul Hasib Mamun; Office Secretary Mohammad Ali Siddiqui; former president of the U.S. Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council Nabendu Dutta; U.S. Eastern Awami League Organizing Secretary Hasibul Hasan Mamun; U.S. Awami League leaders Faruk T. Molla, Sheikh Atiq, Lutfor Karim, Shyamal Kanti Chandra and Bishwas Liton Hossain; City Awami League Vice President Akhtar Hossain Sakhawat; senior journalist Haqikul Islam Khokon; New York State Awami League Vice President and member-secretary of the Sheikh Hasina Mukti Sangram Parishad Sheikh Atiq; former president of the U.S. Awami Swechhasebak League Nuruzzaman Sardar; U.S. Sramik League General Secretary Jewel Ahmed; U.S. Awami League Vice President Manzur Chowdhury; Jubo League leader Sheikh Jamal; Connecticut State Awami League General Secretary Humayun Ahmed Chowdhury; Sammilito Borshoboron Convener Mozahid Ansari; former press minister of the Bangladesh Embassy in Washington Sazzad Hossain Sabuj; Mahanagar Awami League leader Shah Selim; Sheikh Hasina Mancha President Abdul Jalil and General Secretary Kaykobad; Ataur Rahman, Shahidul Islam, Rumana Akter, Z.A. Joy, former Chhatra League President Anisuzzaman Sabuj, U.S. Swechhasebak League General Secretary Syed Kibria Zaman, Shakti D. Gupta, a candidate for cultural secretary of Bangladesh Society, and former U.S. Chhatra League General Secretary Mohammad Jahangir Mia.

Speakers said justice for Ganapati Chakraborty and his family members is not merely a matter concerning one family, but is directly connected to the security, human rights and rule of law of every citizen in Bangladesh. They called for those responsible to be brought to justice through an impartial investigation, regardless of their political, religious or social identities.

They further emphasized that freedom of expression, political rights, religious freedom and cultural rights are not privileges granted to any particular group, but fundamental rights of every citizen. They urged the state to play an effective and impartial role in protecting those rights. Participants displayed banners and placards carrying various demands and chanted slogans in support of justice, human rights, democracy and citizen security.

From Jackson Heights, New York, the protesters delivered what they described as a clear message to Bangladesh: No citizen’s life or rights should be made unsafe because of religion, identity or political beliefs. Every killing must be impartially investigated and prosecuted, and the fundamental rights of every citizen must be guaranteed.