Photo : BSS

RAJSHAHI, Feb 15, 2026 (BSS)- 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  organizationed  at its own office in Nowhata Bazar under Paba Upazila in the district, through a cake-cutting ceremony and cultural performances. 

On the occasion, 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 said, “To integrate the hijra and underprivileged communities into the mainstream, social awareness and training-based initiatives are extremely important. The work that Bachar Asha Cultural Organization has been carrying out for a long time conveys a message of positive change for society. The activities of such organizations at the local level need to be expanded further.”

Kazi Nazmul Islam said, “Sustainable development is not possible without the empowerment of marginalized communities. Bachar Asha is working not only in cultural practice but also to uphold humanitarian values and self-respect. The media and conscious members of society must stand beside such initiatives.”

Mostafa Sarker said the organization began its journey on 15 February 2003 with just 55 members.
Currently, the total number of members has increased to 274, including 127 hijra members. 

He added that the organization has been consistently working to improve the living standards of marginalized and disadvantaged communities, promote financial self-reliance, and develop 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.