…marks beginning of Eid reunion
Moroke Sekoboto
THE Bangladeshi Association of Lesotho (BAoL) hosted a vibrant double celebration in Maseru on Sunday, marking the Bengali New Year 1433 and the start of the Eid reunion.
The event, held shortly after the holy month of Ramadan, symbolised cultural heritage, renewal and unity within Lesotho’s diverse communities.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were Minister of Gender, Youth and Social Development, Pitso Lesaoana, and Deputy Commissioner of Police Sera Makharilele. Representatives from various international communities, including India, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Malawi, China and the Democratic Republic of Congo, also attended.
Senior BAoL members present included president Dr Rahul Quddus, vice president Kabir Mollah and acting secretary general Belayet Dhali Shaymol, alongside other executive members and community representatives.
The gathering highlighted BAoL’s growing role in fostering international camaraderie in Lesotho.
Dr Quddus described the Bengali New Year as a season of harmony and fresh beginnings, while reflecting on the association’s rapid progress since its establishment on February 18, 2024.
“We have come a long way since our formation. We reaffirm our commitment to strengthening relations between our two nations and uplifting communities in need,” Dr Quddus said.
The programme began with prayers and the singing of both the Lesotho and Bangladeshi national anthems, underscoring mutual respect between the two nations.
Guests were treated to traditional Bangladeshi music and cuisine, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Dr Quddus also highlighted the association’s humanitarian efforts over the past year, including charitable outreach and community-building initiatives. He said plans are underway to expand these programmes and deepen bilateral cooperation.
“We are committed to fostering mutual respect, cultural appreciation and meaningful development projects that benefit both nations,” he said.
He added that BAoL would continue working closely with local authorities, businesses and community groups to promote cultural exchange, economic cooperation and social development.
Mr Lesaoana said the celebrations went beyond marking calendar events, describing them as a reflection of resilience, renewal and diversity.
“At the ministry, we often say culture is the heartbeat of a nation. Seeing the Bangladeshi community share their vibrant traditions reminds us that while we may come from different parts of the world, our values remain the same — family, faith and the pursuit of harmony,” Mr Lesaoana said.
He commended the symbolic singing of both national anthems, saying it demonstrated that unity is not merely an ideal but a lived experience.
“As we celebrate the Bengali New Year, let this be a fresh beginning marked by stronger bilateral ties and deeper cultural and economic cooperation,” he said.
The event underscored the growing ties between the Bangladeshi and Basotho communities, while promoting cultural exchange, unity and social development.
