Nowhata: Bachar Asha Cultural Organization, which works to establish social dignity and achieve self-reliance for the hijra and underprivileged communities, has celebrated its 23rd founding anniversary today. The function was organized at its own office in Nowhata Bazar under Paba Upazila in the district, through a cake-cutting ceremony and cultural performances.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, blankets were distributed among the members of Bachar Asha Cultural Organization by Bondhu Social Welfare. The chief guest at the event was former mayor of Nowhata Pourashava, Sheikh Mokbul Hossain. The program was conducted by the organization’s coordinator, Akhteruzzaman.
Special guests included the chief adviser of the organization and president of Paba Upazila Press Club, Kazi Nazmul Islam, and youth leader Sujon Molla. The event was presided over by the president of Bachar Asha Cultural Organization, Mostafa Sarker.
In his speech, Sheikh Mokbul Hossain emphasized the importance of social awareness and training-based initiatives to integrate the hijra and underprivileged communities into the mainstream. He highlighted the long-standing efforts of Bachar Asha Cultural Organization in conveying a message of positive change for society and called for the expansion of such activities at the local level.
Kazi Nazmul Islam noted that sustainable development is not possible without empowering marginalized communities. He acknowledged Bachar Asha’s efforts in cultural practice and upholding humanitarian values and self-respect, urging the media and conscious members of society to support such initiatives.
Mostafa Sarker shared that the organization began its journey on 15 February 2003 with just 55 members and has now grown to 274 members, including 127 hijra members. He emphasized the organization’s consistent work to improve the living standards of marginalized and disadvantaged communities, promote financial self-reliance, and sustainably preserve Bangladesh’s traditional folk culture.
Over the past 23 years, Bachar Asha Cultural Organization has implemented 22 projects with the support of local and international donor agencies. The organization’s leaders stated that their long journey has been driven by the goal of establishing the rights of marginalized communities and integrating them into the mainstream by building strong relationships and networks with people from all sectors of society.