Channel i and Impress Telefilm Limited, two prominent names in Bangladesh’s television and entertainment industry, celebrated their 28th anniversary with a grand event in New York City. The colorful gathering brought together members of the Bangladeshi diaspora, journalists, artists, cultural figures, business leaders and distinguished guests to celebrate the organizations’ longstanding contributions to journalism, culture and creative industries.
The event featured an award ceremony recognizing individuals for their outstanding contributions to journalism, environmental reporting, arts, literature, culture and other fields. The celebration also highlighted the role of Bangladeshi media in promoting the country’s language, heritage and cultural identity among communities living abroad.
The program was jointly hosted by Afzal Hossain, an Ekushey Padak-winning writer, filmmaker, director and musician, and Mynul Islam, a television anchor and journalist. Their presentation added energy and vibrancy to the various segments of the celebration.
One of the highlights of the event was the presentation of a special award to Mynul Islam, Channel i’s Special Correspondent and presenter, in recognition of his contributions to journalism. The award was presented by Faridur Reza Sagar, Managing Director of Impress Telefilm Limited and Channel i; Ekushey Padak-winning writer and filmmaker Afzal Hossain; and prominent woman entrepreneur Kona Reza.
Mohammad Soumik Ahmed, a Special Correspondent, was also honored for his contributions to environmental journalism. In addition, Mohammad Mohiuddin Khan Moin, General Manager, received recognition for his significant role in promoting and expanding Channel i’s presence across North America.
Speakers at the event discussed the importance of the media in society, the promotion of the Bangla language and culture, and the preservation of Bangladesh’s heritage among expatriate communities. They emphasized that Bangla-language media can play an important role in connecting younger generations of the diaspora with their cultural roots and strengthening ties with Bangladesh.
They also expressed hope that such initiatives would further promote unity, cultural exchange and stronger social bonds within the Bangladeshi-American community.
The cultural segment added a festive dimension to the celebration, featuring musical performances that captivated the audience. A special attraction was a duet performance by popular actress Moushumi and singer Dinat Jahan Munni.
The evening concluded with musical performances, award presentations, greetings and moments of reflection on Channel i’s journey over the past 28 years.
Among those attending were prominent journalist Khalid Mohiuddin, Bangladesh’s Press Minister in Washington, Golam Mortuza, Bangladesh’s Deputy Consul General in New York, Anisuzzaman, leaders of the Bangladesh-American Police Association (BAPA), singers, popular actors, business leaders and other distinguished guests.
The anniversary celebration in New York served not only as a commemoration of Channel i and Impress Telefilm Limited’s 28-year journey but also as a tribute to individuals who have contributed to journalism, culture and creative endeavors. The event underscored the continuing importance of Bangladeshi media and cultural initiatives in bringing together communities across borders.