James Anderson:
In a heartfelt expression of solidarity and compassion, the Bangladesh Society of New York organized a special dua mahfil (prayer gathering) to remember and honor the lives lost in two tragic incidents—one in Bangladesh and the other in New York.
The solemn event was held in memory of the students and teachers of Milestone School and College who perished in a Bangladesh Air Force training aircraft accident, as well as to pray for the soul of NYPD Officer Didarul Islam, a Bangladeshi-American officer who tragically passed away while on duty in the city he served.
Community members, leaders, and residents gathered with heavy hearts, offering prayers not only for the deceased but also for strength and solace for the grieving families. The gathering was a poignant moment of reflection for the Bangladeshi diaspora, reminding attendees of the fragility of life and the importance of collective mourning and healing.
“From overseas, we still feel the pain of the homeland. And when tragedy strikes our own here, we feel it doubly. The Bangladesh Society’s efforts are a testament to shared grief, shared humanity,” said a community member who praised the initiative on social media, calling it “a true expression of responsibility and compassion.”
The program resonated deeply with attendees, who noted how the Society continues to stand beside the community in times of sorrow—whether in mourning for national tragedies or in honoring the lives of local heroes. Such initiatives reflect a broader commitment to not only cultural connection but also human solidarity.
Prayers were made for the souls of all the deceased, with hopes that Allah grants them peace and paradise and gives their families the strength to endure their loss. The gathering concluded with a collective moment of silence and heartfelt supplications, leaving many visibly moved.
The Bangladesh Society’s event was a meaningful reminder that distance does not dilute grief, and that a community united by shared values and roots can stand resilient—whether in the face of loss at home or abroad.
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