Sanu Miah remembered with deep affection

Former community activist Sanu Miah was remembered with deep affection and admiration at an event held on 8 May 2026 at the Microbusiness Centre in East London. Family members, friends, fellow activists, cultural figures and community leaders gathered to celebrate the life and legacy of a man many described as a tireless champion of the community.

The event was chaired by Abdul Malik Khukon and conducted by Shadin Khasru. In his opening remarks, Abdul Malik Khukon, joint organiser of the event and joint editor of the commemorative publication, reflected on Sanu Miah’s lifelong dedication to community service, secular activism and cultural engagement.

Childhood friends and members of the Shapla Youth Force (SYF), Ali, Joynal Uddin, Turon Miah, Harris Ali, and Jamal, shared heartfelt memories of growing up with Sanu Miah, recalling his energy, leadership and unwavering commitment to helping others. Emotional tributes were also delivered by Sanu Miah’s sister Jana, former chair of the Nirmul Committee, Nooruddin Ahmed, poet Shamim Azad, writer Moynur Rahman Babul, politician Khasruzzaman, broadcaster Rabin Haider Khan, activist Jamal Khan, Yasmin Matin, Saleha, Sechcha Sebak League’s chair Shad, UK Nirmul Committee chair Syed Enamul Islam, community activist Rajonuddin Jalal and Bangladesh Welfare Association President Harmuz Ali.

Sanu Miah’s wife, Monwara Khatun Parvin, and son, Tanim, were present throughout the programme as speakers paid tribute to a man they said had devoted his life to serving the Bengali community in Britain.

Speakers described Sanu Miah as an inspirational figure whose contribution would be remembered for generations. He was the founder of the Shapla Youth Force (SYF), whose football team famously travelled to Bangladesh to play against the army, BGB, air force and other national teams. He was also one of the founders of the UK Nirmul Committee and was widely respected as a secular activist, Labour Party activist, Secretary of Sechcha Sebak League and passionate cultural organiser.

A commemorative publication dedicated to Sanu Miah’s life and work was officially launched by Ansar Ahmed Ullah, who presented copies to Sanu Miah’s mother, Hamida Begum, as well as to attendees at the event.

Bringing the evening to a close, Shadin Khasru thanked everyone who contributed and creatively to the publication, including Juyel Raaj, who typed the manuscript, Hamid Md, who edited the publication, and Arif, who designed it.

The programme concluded with the screening of short documentary films on Sanu Miah’s life, leaving many in the audience visibly moved as they reflected on the enduring legacy of a man whose dedication, compassion and activism touched countless lives.