Dua and Milad Mahfil held in Sydney on Sheikh Russell’s birthday, organised by Awami League

Image: Collected

On the occasion of the birthday of Shaheed Sheikh Russell, the youngest son of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and “Sheikh Russell Day,” the Bangladesh Awami League, Australia branch, organised a discussion meeting, Milad and Doa Mahfil in Sydney.

The programme was held at a local community centre in Sydney. Members of the Bangladeshi community living in Australia, along with leaders, activists and supporters from various levels of the Awami League and its affiliated and associate organisations, attended the event.

The programme began with the offering of floral tributes at the portrait of Shaheed Sheikh Russell as a mark of deep respect. This was followed by a discussion session. Speakers highlighted different aspects of Sheikh Russell’s short yet highly talented life. Recalling his simplicity, liveliness and refined manners, they noted that this innocent child, only 10 years old, fell victim to the brutal bullets of the assassins on the fateful night of 15 August 1975. By ignoring his desperate pleas and killing him, the assassins committed one of the most heinous crimes in world history. Senior leaders present urged that the memory and ideals of Sheikh Russell be properly conveyed to the new generation living abroad.

The meeting was presided over by the organisation’s president and prominent lawyer Dr Sirajul Haque. Also present was Mehedi Hasan Kochi, General Secretary of the Australia Awami League.

After the discussion, a special Milad and Doa Mahfil was held. Verses from the Holy Quran were recited, and special prayers were offered seeking forgiveness for the soul of Shaheed Sheikh Russell. Prayers were also offered for the forgiveness of the souls of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Bangamata Sheikh Fazilatunnesa Mujib and all other family members martyred on the night of 15 August, as well as for the overall peace, prosperity and progress of the country. The programme concluded with the distribution of Tabarruk among all those present.