Thousands Gather for Chittagong Association of North America Annual Picnic in New York
Nearly 2,000 members of the Bangladeshi community gathered at Heckscher State Park in New York on July 12 for the annual picnic organized by the Chittagong Association of North America Inc., turning the venue into a vibrant celebration of Chattogram’s heritage, culture, and community spirit.
The event was presided over by the association’s president, Mohammad Abu Taher. Distinguished businessman and Abdul Kader Mia Foundation founder Abdul Kader Mia inaugurated the picnic as chief guest. In his opening remarks, he emphasized the importance of such gatherings in preserving Chattogram’s traditions, culture, and social bonds among Bangladeshi expatriates and praised the organizers for their efforts.
Following the inauguration, President Abu Taher welcomed participants and thanked community members for their strong support. The day’s program, including stage activities, prize distribution, and overall coordination, was conducted by General Secretary Mohammad Ariful Islam.
From early morning, families and friends filled the park, reconnecting in the Chittagonian dialect, sharing memories, and enjoying a festive atmosphere. The event also provided younger generations born or raised abroad with an opportunity to experience the language and cultural traditions of their ancestral homeland.
Breakfast featuring bananas and croissants was served to guests, while children participated in drawing competitions and recreational games. A pillow game for women drew enthusiastic crowds, adding to the festive atmosphere. Lunch was followed by refreshments including watermelon, spicy puffed rice, and traditional sweet betel leaf.
The cultural program featured performances by popular singers Tina Russell, Rajib, and other artists, entertaining attendees throughout the afternoon. The celebration concluded with a raffle draw and prize distribution.
Among those in attendance were the association’s founding president Abdur Rahim; former presidents Muhammad Hanif and Kazi Shakhawat Hossain Azam; Trustee Board Chairman Alhaj Shamsul Alam Chowdhury; Chief Adviser Muhammad Selim; former general secretaries Afsar Uddin and CPA Sarwar Zaman; Trustee Board Co-Chairman Kamal Hossain Mithu; trustee board members Enam Chowdhury, Syed Mosharraf Hossain Babar, Abu Taleb Chowdhury Chandu, Abul Kashem Chattala, Mizanur Rahman Jahangir, and Tarikul Haydar Chowdhury, along with advisers and executive committee members.
Organizers said the annual gathering not only strengthened friendship and unity among expatriate Bangladeshis but also helped introduce Chattogram’s language, heritage, and traditions to the next generation. They expressed appreciation to sponsors, volunteers, performers, and participants for making the event a success and pledged to continue organizing similar community celebrations in the future.
