Thanksgiving Celebration by Bangladesh League of America Brings Together the Diaspora

The Bangladesh League of America, one of the oldest social and cultural organizations in the Bangladeshi diaspora, celebrated its traditional Thanksgiving event in a festive atmosphere on November 29. The event drew a large crowd, filling the hall within half an hour of the doors opening at 6 p.m.

The ceremony began with the national anthems of both Bangladesh and the United States, conducted by General Secretary Syed Sakil Haque. In her welcome remarks, President Shahida Sikder Hai thanked the guests and invited the 21-member executive committee to the stage. Their group musical performance became one of the most memorable moments of the evening.

Under the coordination of the organization’s Youth Forum, young performers Raisha Jerin, Araf Hasan, and Daniya Syed Dia showcased musical performances, while Moon Hai, Leona Muhith, and Raisha Jerin presented dance pieces. Their energetic participation created an emotional atmosphere, drawing enthusiastic applause from the audience. The segment concluded with a vote of thanks from child artist Raham.

At 9 p.m., the interactive session “Hasun Ar Bhavun” (Laugh and Think) began, moderated by Joint General Secretary Wadood Ahmed and hosted by Sheela Muhith and Sakil Haque. Guests engaged in lively discussions filled with humor and spontaneous commentary. Among the participants were Emad Chowdhury, Bedarul Islam Babla, Shaheen Chowdhury, Nurul Amin, Mukul Haque, Sheikh Atik, Fakir Elias, Farhana Elias Tuli, Sheikh Siraj, and others.

Following the session, President Shahida Sikder Hai performed a song. The Thanksgiving turkey dinner then officially began with closing remarks from the chief advisor. Guests enjoyed a memorable meal in a warm, friendly environment.

The much-anticipated cultural evening followed the dinner. Performers Lipi Rosario, Kaniz Fatema Papri, Tahrina Parvin Preeti, Sharmin Akter Rexona, and Ejaz Alam took the stage one after another, entertaining the audience with popular songs. The segment was hosted by Lucy Hassan and Hafiza Husen, with musical support from Treasurer Ali Hasan.

Notable guests in attendance included writer-poet Fakir Elias, Prothom Alo editor Ibrahim Chowdhury Khokon, introduction secretary Nazmul Ahsan, journalist Mahbub Rahman, Sheikh Siraj, poet Farhana Elias Tuli, and several others, adding significance to the gathering.

Members of the Bangladesh League of America’s executive committee were also present, including Chief Advisor Bedarul Islam Babla; advisors Emad Chowdhury, Shaheen Chowdhury, Nurul Amin, and Amanullah; and leaders of the executive panel headed by President Shahida Sikder Hai.