William Henry :
The roar of Niagara Falls provided a fitting backdrop for the 39th Federation of Bangladeshi Associations in North America (FOBANA) Convention, which brought together thousands of members of the Bangladeshi diaspora for three days of culture, unity, and celebration from August 29 to 31, 2025, at the Sheraton Hotel in Niagara Falls, New York.
The convention, one of the largest annual gatherings of Bangladeshi-Americans, opened with a warm reception for the distinguished Chief Guest Dr. Salimullah Khan, who was welcomed at Buffalo Niagara Falls Airport by conveners and committee leaders, including Kazi Sakawat Hossain Azam, Ali Imam Sikder, Nishan Rahim, Shab Uddin Sagour, and Sadek Bhai. Their presence underscored the significance of the convention as both a cultural celebration and a platform for community connection.
The opening ceremony at 8 p.m. on August 29 set the stage for a weekend filled with music, performances, and thought-provoking discussions. Attendees enjoyed a lineup of star performers from Bangladesh, including celebrated singer Asif Akbar, whose performance added a powerful emotional layer to the festivities. The inclusion of well-known artists alongside local talents highlighted the convention’s dual mission of showcasing Bangladeshi heritage while supporting community voices abroad.
Organized by the Federation of Bangladeshi Associations in North America (FOBANA), the convention was more than entertainment—it was a space for dialogue, networking, and cultural affirmation. Leaders and community members engaged in conversations about preserving heritage, empowering youth, and strengthening ties between Bangladesh and its diaspora. With participants traveling from across the United States and Canada, the event truly reflected the global spirit of Bangladeshi identity.
Beyond performances and ceremonies, the convention also provided halal Bangladeshi food, ensuring that families could enjoy traditional cuisine while immersing themselves in the cultural atmosphere. For many attendees, the weekend was not just a festival but a reunion—an opportunity to reconnect with old friends, celebrate achievements, and envision a stronger, united future for Bangladeshi communities in North America.
As the second day unfolded with more cultural showcases and community forums, the convention reaffirmed its role as the largest and most anticipated gathering of Bangladeshis in North America. With Niagara Falls as its dramatic backdrop, the event highlighted how the diaspora continues to honor its roots while building bridges of friendship and cooperation abroad.
The 39th FOBANA Convention in Niagara Falls will be remembered not only for its vibrant performances and distinguished guests, but also for the powerful sense of unity it fostered among the Bangladeshi-American community—demonstrating once again that even far from home, cultural heritage continues to thrive.
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All Photo Credit: Neher Siddiquee
