The years have gone by in the blink of an eye, and the Hong Kong Bengali Association (HKBA) is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. I've had a close relationship with HKBA from the very inception of our beloved association. It feels like yesterday when in 1998, I witnessed as we formally formed this association. I'm heartened to see the enthusiasm and excitement grow from strength to strength over the years. It is my great honour and privilege to become the President of HKBA, especially in this particularly meaningful year. I would like to thank all the members and the General Committee for your trust and support. Looking forward, HKBA will certainly continue to play an important role in enriching the cultural, social, educational and recreational landscape of Hong Kong in general and of the Hong Kong’s Bengali community in particular. We are proud to have an impressive array of talents in our members, General Committee and Volunteer teams who come from various walks of life. From the beats of the dhaak during Durga Pujo, to the lakeside picnic during cool winter months (and everything in between), we will continue to deliver to all our members the rich cultural experiences of our beloved Bengal throughout the year. I look forward to the journey with you all!

Yours sincerely,

Dr. Pradip Putatunda

President

Hong Kong Bengali Association

N.B. I want to take this opportunity to introduce the EC Committee for the year 2023-2025 to all Members.

I trust this email finds you well and filled with the same sense of pride and joy that we experienced during our recent event commemorating the 25th anniversary of our esteemed association and celebrating Tagore's birth anniversary.

As we reflect on the success of the event, I am reminded of the countless individuals whose dedication and tireless efforts have paved the way for our association's growth and prominence over the past quarter-century. Among these outstanding individuals are the past presidents whose leadership and vision have been instrumental in shaping the course of our journey.

To each of our past presidents and to their respective committee members, I extend my deepest gratitude for your invaluable contributions and steadfast commitment to our cause. Your guidance, wisdom, and unwavering dedication have played a pivotal role in establishing our association as a beacon of Bengali culture and heritage in Hong Kong. It is thanks to your pioneering efforts that we stand here today, celebrating this significant milestone with pride and gratitude.

I would be remiss if I did not also express my heartfelt appreciation to every member who has supported our association throughout the years. Whether through active participation in events, volunteering your time and talents, or simply being a steadfast presence within our community, your contributions have been vital to our collective success.

The recent event was a testament to the strength of our unity and the richness of our cultural heritage. From the vibrant performances to the engaging "addas", every aspect of the celebration was a reflection of the passion and dedication of our members.

On behalf of the entire association, I extend my sincerest thanks to each and every one of you for your unwavering support and commitment. We will strive to continue to celebrate our heritage and work together towards a brighter future for the Hong Kong Bengali Association and the community we serve.

With warm regards,

Dr. Pradip Putatunda

President

Hong Kong Bengali Association

GSOE a Kolkata based organisation who are involved in promoting and showcasing Bengali Culture to the world. They have been recognising the effort made by Bengali Association across the world in doing the same. This year HKBA was awarded a recognition certificate. This in an proud moment for the association and all its members. Our tireless efforts in promoting Bengali culture and traditions among the vibrant Bengali community in Hong Kong have not gone unnoticed. By organizing various traditional events, including the grand Durga Puja festival, we have played a crucial role in spreading the rich heritage of Bengal.

The live event was organised at Indian Council For Cultural Relations(ICCR) auditorium on 13th July, Deputy British High Commissioner presented the award. HKBA General Secretary Mr. Sanjay Bhattacharyya collected the award on behalf of the EC and all the members at a later date.

We are sharing some on snaps from the ceremony.

To know more about GSOE and the award please check the link below

https://gsoedurgapuja.com/gsoe-awards/
https://www.facebook.com/dp2022/photos
https://x.com/Andrew007Uk/status/1812419763701690729?t=rr_GC-XfaKoimJa851aVfA&s=08

In light of the ongoing efforts by the trainee doctors of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital ( RGKMCH ) for justice and safety, we, the members of the Hong Kong Bengali Association, wish to express our steadfast support and solidarity. The recent tragic incident that has profoundly affected the medical community and our national conscience has brought this movement to a critical juncture.

As we await the next Supreme Court hearing on Tuesday, September 17, we encourage you to take proactive steps by joining us for a gathering on Sunday, September 15, at 4:00 PM at IRC. A flyer with further details has already been circulated.

We urge all our members in Hong Kong who value justice and human rights to stand with this movement. This issue transcends RGKMCH; it is about demanding accountability and justice within a system that has often failed to protect those who care for the most vulnerable. Our collective support and solidarity are essential in the fight for a just and safe working environment.

Let us unite for this cause, as it represents not only our concerns but also the future well-being of India.

1. Opening of the Protest Meet

2. Note of support & solidarity for the protest from the President of HKBA

3. Note of solidarity from the members of HKBA

4. Open Mic: Solidarity Voices from participants of the protest meet & slogan shouting

5. Closing Remarks & Final Solidarity Chant