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Created: 16 December 2025

Edmonton, Alberta | December 16, 2025 (BHESA): Shaheed Intellectuals Day (December 14) and the 55th Great Victory Day of Bangladesh were observed with due solemnity at the ACT Aquatic & Recreation Centre in Roundel Park, Edmonton.

The program paid tribute to the martyred teachers, students, journalists, intellectuals, and public servants who laid down their lives during the Liberation War of 1971. It also commemorated December 16, 1971—the day the Bengali nation achieved its ultimate victory after nine months of a bloody armed struggle, culminating in the surrender of the occupying Pakistani forces and the birth of an independent and sovereign Bangladesh founded on four core principles: democracy, socialism, secularism, and nationalism.

Recalling the political continuum of the Liberation War—from the Language Movement of 1952 to the Six-Point Movement of 1966, the Eleven-Point Movement of 1969, and the historic election of 1970—the chief guest, Bir Muktijoddha Delwar Jahid, founding executive member of Bangladesh Muktijoddha Sangsad Canada Unit and President of the North American Journalists Network, highlighted the sacrifices of the leaders of the Provisional Government, sector commanders, freedom fighters, and the persecuted mothers and sisters of the nation.

The event was presided over by Saifur Hasan, President of the Bangladesh Heritage and Ethnic Society of Alberta (BESA). Among those present were Engineer Kabir Hossain, journalist Md. Ismail, Haidar Jan Chowdhury, automotive technician, Tanvir Hasan, Shakil Ahmed, Ryhana Rasmin, women representatives, Sonia Akter, Selina Islam, Ayesha Parvin, Shiuli Begum, Rima Begum, Sabira Hasan, Osheneya, and others.

In his address, the chief guest stated that while the sacrifices of the martyrs constitute a glorious chapter in the nation’s history, they have been politicized and remain contested. He warned that attempts are being made to undermine the dignity of martyrs’ families before the new generation by distorting the history of atrocities committed by the Pakistani occupation forces and their collaborators—Razakars, Al-Badr, and Al-Shams—and that those backing such efforts are now calling for civil conflict within the country.

Mr. Jahid urged families and educational institutions to actively cultivate patriotism, historical consciousness, and a sense of responsibility toward the true history of the Liberation War among children and adolescents.

On behalf of BESA, new immigrants were formally welcomed to Edmonton, with a call for unity and organization within the community. An open discussion followed, with participation from artist Tamim Hossain, Montasir Mamun, and Md. Jamal Uddin, Md. Rais Uddin, Sultan Russell, and Saifur Hasan.

During the meeting, a five-member executive committee was formed to reorganize and strengthen the Bangladesh Heritage and Ethnic Society of Alberta:

President: Sultan Russell; Vice President: Md. Jamal Uddin; Secretary: Md. Rahis Uddin; Treasurer: Montasir Mamun; Ex-Officio: S. Hasan.

The chief guest introduced the newly elected officers. Mr. Jahid, along with Saifur Hasan and Sultan Russell, distributed Victory Day gifts among children and adolescents.

The event concluded with the serving of traditional Bangladeshi cuisine, which all attendees warmly appreciated.

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Created: 16 April 2025

Edmonton, April 15, 2025 — The halls of Alberta’s Legislature Building were filled with vibrant color, music, and spirit today as Honourable Nathan Cooper, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, hosted a special Vaisakhi celebration at the historic Rotunda at 11:45 a.m. The event drew community leaders, cultural groups, and elected officials together to recognize this significant festival for the Sikh community and other South Asian cultures.

In a gesture of unity and celebration, Speaker Cooper opened the Legislative session later that afternoon by acknowledging the Vaisakhi ceremony and recognizing guests who participated earlier in the day. Addressing the Assembly, he said, “Happy Vaisakhi to everyone,” before inviting distinguished guests in the gallery to rise and be acknowledged with the Assembly’s warm welcome.

Among the honored guests were Dr. Amit Kumar, Lipika Choudhury, Puneet Manchanda, Ilona Maitra, Rajeev Mittal, Harjeet Singh, and Delwar Jahid, Bangladesh origin an eminent journalist reflecting the diversity and community involvement that the event embodied.

A highlight of the celebration was the performance by the Gurukul Dance Studio of Calgary, whose members led the singing of the anthem at the Rotunda event. Their graceful presentation set the tone for a morning steeped in heritage and harmony.

During the session, MLA Mr. Singh (Calgary-East) proudly introduced members of the Sarb Akal Society of Calgary, a group deeply rooted in cultural preservation and community service, led by Mr. Harjeet Singh. Their presence at the Legislature underscored the importance of acknowledging and uplifting cultural identities within public service and civic pride.

Members from various constituencies also took part in the day’s celebration, introducing school groups and community organizations, all of whom received heartfelt welcomes from the Assembly. MLA Ms. Lovely (Camrose) shared her admiration for the young performers from Gurukul, while MLA Mr. Stephan highlighted the contributions of the YYC Society, and MLA Ms. de Jonge welcomed community leaders and families from Chestermere who attended the Vaisakhi ceremony.

The formal session began with the Speaker’s opening prayer, invoking guidance and wisdom for all in positions of leadership — a sentiment echoing the values of service and humility celebrated during Vaisakhi.

As the Legislative Assembly continued with its regular proceedings, the spirit of the morning’s celebration lingered — a testament to Alberta’s commitment to cultural inclusion and recognition of its richly diverse population.

Vaisakhi, which marks the Sikh New Year and the founding of the Khalsa in 1699, is a time of joy, reflection, and community service. Today’s event at the Alberta Legislature served not only as a celebration of that legacy but also as a reminder of the strength found in multiculturalism and shared values.

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Created: 05 March 2025

Edmonton, Alberta (DEC News) The Alberta Parliament in Edmonton, the capital of Alberta, became a vibrant hub of cultural exchange as it celebrated the Bengali New Year with dignity and enthusiasm on April 16, 2024

. The event marked a significant moment in Alberta’s cultural calendar, resonating with the rich traditions of Pohela Boishakh.

MLA Jackie Lovely extended a warm welcome to Bangladeshi community leaders at the Legislative Building. The event set the stage for a meaningful meeting between Bengali-speaking community leaders and the Honorable Speaker of Parliament, Nathan Cooper.

In his address, Speaker Nathan Cooper conveyed heartfelt wishes for a joyous Bengali New Year and expressed his keen interest in visiting Bangladesh shortly. He emphasized the importance of strengthening the bilateral relationship between the Alberta government and Bangladesh.

The essence of the Bengali New Year, with its vibrant festivities such as village fairs, traders' halkhata, Mangal Shobhajatra, Nagordola, and the iconic Ramna Batmool Chhayanaut gathering, was enthusiastically celebrated. The colorful attire worn by attendees reflected the spirit of individuality, universality, secularism, and humanity—values deeply embedded in the festival. These traditional elements found recognition even within the distinguished halls of the Alberta Legislature.

The celebration commenced with Speaker Nathan Cooper introducing various organizations dedicated to preserving and promoting Bengali heritage, including the Bangladesh Heritage and Ethnic Society of Alberta, Bangladesh Canada Association of Edmonton, Edmonton Bengali Association, and Alberta Bengali Society. These organizations have played a vital role in upholding Bengali culture and traditions in Alberta.

Notable guests included Bir Muktijoddha Delwar Jahid, Chief Advisor of the Bangladesh Heritage and Ethnic Society of Alberta, and President of the Bangladesh North American Journalist Network. Other esteemed leaders in attendance were BCAE President Din Islam, Janmejoy Das Chowdhury, Bikash Talukder, and Rozina Meena.

During the afternoon session, MLA Jackie Lovely presented a statement on the significance of Pohela Boishakh. Additionally, Delwar Jahid, a prominent advocate for human rights and democracy, held a separate meeting with government caucus MLA Jason Stephan to foster further dialogue and understanding. The presence of Babu Indra Chowdhury, the United Conservative Caucus Community Outreach Coordinator, added energy and vibrancy to the event, ensuring a dynamic and inclusive atmosphere.

A Historical Perspective:

The Bengali New Year was first officially recognized at the Alberta Parliament on April 4, 2017. The session was chaired by Honourable Robert E. Wanner, then Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, and featured a member statement by Ms. Woollard, who acknowledged the significance of the occasion and extended New Year greetings to the Bengali community in Alberta.

She remarked, "Bengali New Year, or Pohela Boishakh, is the first day of the Bengali calendar, celebrated on April 14 in Bangladesh and many other South Asian countries. It is a time of fairs, festivals, and music, with people preparing traditional dishes and visiting family and friends. A key part of the celebration is the meal of fermented rice and hilsa fish."

The deep-rooted traditions of Pohela Boishakh, originating from rural Bengal, have evolved into grand festivities in urban centers, especially in Dhaka. The procession organized by the students and faculty of the University of Dhaka remains one of the most iconic aspects of the celebration, featuring themes that reflect Bangladesh’s culture and politics.

A Community-Led Initiative:

The first celebration at Alberta’s Parliament was spearheaded by the then government under the NDP. Eminent journalist Delwar Jahid played a leading role in uniting the Bangladeshi community and advocating for the recognition of Bengali heritage in Alberta.

The continued celebration of Bengali New Year at the Alberta Parliament underscores the province’s commitment to cultural diversity and inclusivity. As the tradition grows stronger, it fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of Bengali heritage among the broader Canadian society.