On Saturday 27th September 2025, I had the pleasure of attending the Bangladeshi Dinner Party — an annual celebration of all that is Bengali: our clothes, our culture, our customs, and of course, our cuisine.
Organised by Salam Jones & Shams Sia, this special event brings together 100 guests each year for an unforgettable evening that celebrates the essence of Bangladesh through food, storytelling, and togetherness. Though rooted in the culinary traditions of Bangladesh, the dinner party warmly embraces people from all backgrounds. Guests come dressed in beautiful Bangladeshi attire — from modern panjabis and saris to elegant fusion styles — creating a vibrant sea of colour and pride.
The highlight of the night? The food. Over 20 traditional Bangladeshi dishes, each lovingly prepared by talented volunteers, offered a true journey through our culinary heritage. Every bite carried memories of home — from the aroma of biryani to the sweetness of mishti — cooked using recipes passed down through generations.
I was honoured to be invited to this year’s gathering to introduce my book, Amar Shonar Bangla – A Bangladesh Walkthrough. Sharing this twelve-year labour of love with such a passionate community was incredibly special. The book celebrates Bangladesh’s history, culture, and natural beauty through heartfelt storytelling and illustrations, and the response from guests was truly humbling. Many shared how it reminded them of their own roots, their parents’ villages, and the sights and sounds of their childhoods.
In support of the event’s charitable cause, I also donated 10% of my book profits to the charity initiative connected to the Dinner Party. Giving back to our community — especially through projects that preserve and promote Bangladeshi culture — is something deeply close to my heart.
The atmosphere that evening was both elegant and easy-going — a perfect balance of warmth and sophistication. Conversations flowed, laughter filled the air, and by the end of the night, it truly felt like family.
I’m deeply grateful to Salam Jones and the entire team for their incredible effort in creating such a meaningful experience. The Bangladeshi Dinner Party is more than just a dinner — it’s a celebration of who we are, a reminder of our roots, and a bridge that connects us all through the love of food, culture, and community.
📖 Amar Shonar Bangla – A Bangladesh Walkthrough is available now on Amazon and amarshonarbangla.co.uk
