Kamata Sub-Chapter Holds Winter Pitha Festival and Language Day Drawing Contest in Tokyo

Islamic Mission Japan's Kamata sub-chapter, working under the supervision of the organisation's Tokyo chapter, held a winter pitha (traditional Bangladeshi cake) festival and a children's drawing competition marking International Mother Language Day on February 1 in Ota, Tokyo. The programme, held under the theme "In the bond of brotherhood, in the shade of faith," also included the announcement of contest results and a prize distribution ceremony.

IMJ central vice-president Majedul Khokon attended as chief guest, while ATM Misbahul Kabir, a well-known figure in the Bangladeshi community in Japan and a former central president of the mission, delivered the keynote address. In his remarks, Kabir spoke about considerations for conscious citizens ahead of Bangladesh's upcoming national parliamentary election, and offered guidance on the mission's da'wah work in Japan. Businessman Wasek Chowdhury gave the welcome address, and Tokyo chapter president Nayamat Ullah, also a member of IMJ's central advisory council, presided over the event, which opened with a recitation of the Qur'an with translation by a boy named Ayman.

Vice-president Khokon spoke on the responsibilities of Muslims and of Bangladeshi expatriates in Japan, reminded attendees that February is the month of language and an opportunity to choose the right leadership, urged preparation for the coming month of Ramadan, and asked parents to keep Bangla language and culture alive among their children while living abroad. Tokyo chapter president Ullah closed the programme with thanks to the organisers, attendees, venue staff and the children.

Around 40 varieties of winter pitha, prepared by Bangladeshi women in the community, were served; turnout exceeded 200, well above the 150 originally expected. Joya Company Limited presented gifts to the women who prepared the pitha, books and copies of the Qur'an were distributed to children, and performers from Dishari Japan provided entertainment throughout the event.