Bonhishikha Sangeet Niketan Hosts Grand Independence Day Celebration in New York Reception for Freedom Fighters; A Heartfelt Red-and-Green Gathering in the Diaspora
Progga News Desk:
Bonhishikha Sangeet Niketan celebrated Bangladesh’s Independence Day in New York with great dignity, honoring valiant freedom fighters, paying tribute to the three million martyrs, and engaging vibrant participation from the younger generation of the diaspora.
The event, held on Friday evening, March 27, 2026, at the beautifully decorated auditorium of the Jewish Center in Jackson Heights, turned into an emotional gathering of expatriate Bangladeshis. The venue was immersed in the spirit of red and green, while patriotic songs recalling the Liberation War captivated the audience.
The program began with a welcome address by the organization’s Founder President and Chairperson, Dr. Sabita Das. The event was smoothly emceed and coordinated by Munmun Saha, whose engaging presentation added energy and elegance to the program.
Among the honored freedom fighters were Bir Muktijoddha Lablu Ansar, President of the U.S. chapter of Sector Commanders Forum–1971; Bir Muktijoddha Rashed Ahmed, CEO of Channel i USA; and Bir Muktijoddha Abul Bashar Chunnu. They were honored with traditional uttoriyo (ceremonial scarves), and floral tributes were presented by children—Ruponti, Athora Ghosh, and Purna Dey.
As the chief guest, New York State Assemblyman Steven Raga extended his greetings to Bangladeshi-Americans on the occasion of Independence Day, stating, “In a multicultural society, the Bangladeshi community continues to shine with pride in its culture and heritage. My office will always stand by the Bangladeshi community.”
Special guest Alim Khan Akash, CEO of Bishwabangla 24 TV, praised the organization’s efforts in preserving and promoting Bengali culture abroad. He noted that under the dedicated leadership of Dr. Sabita Das, the organization is gaining increasing recognition on the international stage.
Notably, Dr. Sabita Das was recently honored with four international awards by a United Nations-affiliated organization for her outstanding contributions to women’s development. She received warm congratulations and appreciation during the event.
Community leaders Humayun Ahmed Chowdhury and Nur Islam Barshan also delivered remarks. Overall coordination of the program was managed by Dr. Darshana Das Ganguly and Dr. Prabhat Chandra Das.
The cultural segment featured musical performances by Runa Saha, Runa Roy, Aruna Saha, Julie Khastagir, Anindita Bhattacharya, Ankita Biswas, Shila Chanda, Ayesha Khan, Farzin Swarna, Soma Rosario, Mita Ghosh, Mili Basak, Ivy Rahman, Rubaiya Shabnam, Chamon Afroz, Jui, Sushmita Halder, Devi Sarkar, and others. Internationally acclaimed tabla artist Tapan Modak accompanied the performances, with instrumental support from Tanzin Sajeeb, Nixon, and others.
The celebration also included a traditional pitha (Bangladeshi delicacies) exhibition and distribution, adding a festive cultural dimension to the program.
The event concluded late at night with a vote of thanks from Dr. Sabita Das, reaffirming the commitment to uphold and promote the spirit of Bangladesh’s independence within American society.
