Grand family reunion held at Payalgacha chairman bari
Staff Reporter:
A grand family reunion was held at the historic Chairman Bari in Payalgacha, Barura, Cumilla, on December 27-28, 2024. The special event reunited family members from both home and abroad after many years of separation.
While Dhaka University Professor Dr Saber Ahmed Chowdhury was responsible for organising the programme, attendees included individuals from diverse professions such as university teachers, development professionals, doctors, engineers, civil servants, and members of the defense forces, showcasing the rich and varied contributions of the family to society.
The event also had the honour of being graced by the UNO of Barura, who participated in the Milon Mela 2024 programme. The UNO expressed great admiration for the initiative, emphasising the importance of preserving such traditions to strengthen family bonds.
The gathering paid tribute to the family’s remarkable heritage, particularly honoring Fazle Ali, BA, and the first graduate of the area and a distinguished alumnus of Aligarh University, who earned his degree during the time of the First World War.
He hailed from the esteemed lineage of Faizullah Khan, the first generation of the Adi Chowdhury Bari, one of Cumilla’s most prestigious families.
Fazle Ali dedicated his career to public service as a high-ranking government official, retiring from the Education Department of greater Mymensingh Division. Following his retirement, he entered politics, serving as the chairman of Payalgacha and Tamta Union of Cumilla for an impressive 25 years.
His legacy was carried forward by his son, Late advocate Shirajul Islam, a passionate Language Movement soldier and a revered figure who served as the President of the Cumilla Bar Association. His other son Mofizul Islam was a distinguished high-ranking officer of the Bangladesh Bank.
This family gathering not only celebrated shared memories and accomplishments but also reinforced the value of unity and heritage. The event served as a bridge between generations, fostering connections that will undoubtedly endure for years to come.