The BEAP Community Partnership hosted a lively celebration for the 53rd Bangladesh Victory Day on 21 December 2024 at Prestige Hall, Bradford. Marking Bangladesh’s triumph and independence in 1971, the event drew over 150 attendees, including local dignitaries, performers, and community leaders. The gathering not only honoured a pivotal moment in Bangladesh’s history but also showcased cultural pride and strengthened unity within Bradford’s Bangladeshi community.
The event featured a dynamic programme that included inspiring speeches, cultural performances, an arts competition for children and a buffet dinner. Guests included Naz Shah MP, Cllr Rizwana Jamil, Former Cllr Hasan Khan, our Editor Fatima Patel, and Humma Nizami (CEO Race Equality Network). The celebration showcased performances from the Bangladeshi Cultural Group Aalaron, M R Rajon, Rayn and Rohan, and traditional folk dance by Arijita and Tonny, drawing ovations from attendees.
Lukman Miah, Manager of BEAP and one of the event’s organisers, said: “Bangladesh Victory Day is a celebration of resilience, culture and freedom. This event is an opportunity for our community to come together to honour our heritage and connect it with Bradford’s multicultural fabric especially as we gear up for Bradford’s City of Culture celebrations in 2025.”
This year’s celebration was aligned with Bradford’s upcoming role as the UK City of Culture 2025. The performances and activities highlighted the rich contributions of the Bangladeshi community to Bradford’s cultural landscape, reinforcing the city’s diversity and vibrancy.
Dr. Shaukat Ahmed MBE, a key organiser of the event, added: “This celebration is more than just remembering our history it’s about ensuring that our culture continues to thrive here in Bradford. As we look forward to the City of Culture year, events like these show how our Bangladeshi heritage is integral to the city’s story.”
Hiron Miah, Chair of BEAP, expressed his gratitude to the community for their participation, stating: “Thank you to everyone who joined us to commemorate this important day. This event reflects the power of community, and with Bradford becoming the City of Culture in 2025, we look forward to continuing to showcase our rich traditions and unity.”
Adding to the praise for the celebration, Fatima Patel, Editor of Asian Standard, said: “It’s always a pleasure to attend events organised by BEAP partnership. Thank you for the invitation and the ever so warm hospitality. The exceptional showcase of Bengali heritage, culture and arts turned my flying visit into a much longer stay. Congrats to Team BEAP!”
The evening concluded with a delicious buffet dinner and a heartfelt thanks to the event’s organisers, Naz Khan, Abed Ali, Lukman Miah, Dr. Shaukat Ahmed and Bappy Rahim whose efforts ensured the celebration was a resounding success.
