Bangladeshi Community in Porto Inaugurates Committee with Vibrant Cultural Fair

The newly formed Bangladeshi Community of Porto marked its inauguration with a colourful cultural fair on Saturday, bringing together expatriates to celebrate heritage and strengthen social bonds. The event began at 3:00 pm local time and featured traditional performances, food stalls, and activities for all ages.

The chief guest, Laila Muntajeri Dina, Consular Head of the Bangladesh Embassy in Lisbon, highlighted the importance of preserving cultural roots abroad. “Maintaining Bangladesh’s traditions while living overseas is vital. Events like this help connect the younger generation to their heritage,” she said.

Special guests included Roni Mohammad, president of the Portugal Bangla Press Club, former president Rasel Ahmed, publicity and office secretary Hafiz Al Asad, and young entrepreneur Iman Ahmed. Together, they welcomed the community’s 65-member executive committee. Shah Alam Kajol was elected president, Abdul Alim as general secretary, and Mosharraf Hossain Kiron as chief advisor. Other office-bearers included Delwar Hossain as office secretary, Abu Saleh Iman as treasurer, and Arafat Hossain as publicity secretary, along with several other committee members.

The inauguration was followed by a cultural programme featuring local artists and guest performers from London, with patriotic songs, traditional dances, recitations, and youth performances drawing appreciation from the audience.

The fair showcased Bangladeshi cuisine, traditional clothing, jewellery, toys, and books, offering expatriates a slice of home. Participant Sirajul Islam Shaheen said, “The fair reminded us of rural village fairs in Bangladesh. Bringing our children here was a joy.”

Organisers said they plan to make such events a regular feature, aiming to strengthen the connection of Bangladeshi expatriates in Porto to their cultural roots.