As a part of Bashundhara Group’s commitment to uplifting underprivileged communities across the country, 60 women from poor families in Bancharampur upazila in Brahmanbaria received free sewing machines after completing three months of training at the Bashundhara Shuvosangho Training Centre.

Under the patronage of Bashundhara Group, members of Shuvosangho trained the women in sewing and cutting, equipping them with skills to earn a living. After completing the training, each beneficiary was gifted a sewing machine, ushering in hope and self-reliance for their families.

The sewing machines were distributed at a ceremony on 21 April at the Upazila Parishad auditorium, as part of Bashundhara Group’s broader initiative to empower vulnerable families across Bangladesh. So far, more than 2,000 sewing machines have been distributed in 23 districts, with plans to expand to all 64 districts through the growing activities of Bashundhara Shuvosangho.

Speaking at the event as the chief guest, Bashundhara Group Adviser Maynal Hossain Chowdhury said the programme was a direct instruction from Bashundhara Group Chairman Ahmed Akbar Sobhan who urged support for those who are healthy but financially struggling.

“Bashundhara Shuvosangho is working in that spirit. Where there are no schools, we have built schools. Where there are no libraries, we have built libraries. And now, we are providing sewing machines so that people can earn a living,” Chowdhury said.

He also highlighted other social initiatives of Bashundhara Group, including interest-free microloans—unparalleled elsewhere in the world—monthly scholarships for thousands of students, and free medical services through their eye hospital.

Shuvosangho Director Zakaria Zaman delivered the welcome speech, urging the recipients to make the best use of the sewing machines. Chan Mia Sarkar moderated the event.

An emotional atmosphere filled the auditorium when it was announced that the sewing machines arranged in front of the participants were theirs to take home. The organisers even arranged food and transport fare, bringing smiles and laughter among the beneficiaries.

“I do not have to worry about serving my mother anymore. I can now earn and take better care of her,” said Shahinur Begum of Banshgari village. A widow living with her mother, Shahinur had been surviving through Kantha sewing and goat rearing. Now, she dreams of a more secure future.

Similarly, Yasmin Akhter, a student whose father sells tea to support their seven-member family, expressed her gratitude, “With this sewing machine, I can help support my family. I pray for Bashundhara Group.”

Md Abdul Awal, a physically disabled father who accompanied his daughter, shared that Bashundhara Group had previously supported his family with scholarships.

Trainer Polly Akhter, who supervised the three-month course, noted that all participants were delighted both to have learned a new skill and to receive a sewing machine.

“This initiative will help restore financial stability to these families,” she said.