Emdad Rahman
A vibrant celebration of heritage, sport, and togetherness came to life on Sunday as over 200 people, mostly families, gathered at Seven Kings Park for the Osmaninagar Eid Fun Day. The event marked a significant milestone – the 10th anniversary of the Osmaninagar Sporting Association, a decade of fostering community cohesion and sporting excellence.
The park buzzed with energy as families arrived to enjoy a day packed with activities. Delighted children enjoyed bouncy castles, while others queued excitedly for face painting and intricate henna designs. The unmistakable scent of hot food filled the air, offering freshly cooked delights that brought people together over shared meals and conversation.
At the heart of the event was the much anticipated football tournament, a proud tradition of the Osmaninagar Sporting Association. After a tense and thrilling set of matches, Goal Mukapon led by Anam Hoque clinched victory on penalties, sparking cheers and applause from spectators young and old. The veteran Hoque saved the final penalty to clinch victory for his young guns.
In a nearby section of the park, attendees also enjoyed watching a live league cricket match, showcasing the depth of local sporting talent.
Adding a colourful cultural dimension the community mela offered a celebration of Bangladeshi heritage and an opportunity for families to connect with their roots, educate the younger generation, and proudly display their cultural identity.
Speaking at the event, Azmol Ali, Chairman of Osmaninagar Sporting Association, said: “This day is about celebrating who we are – our history, our values, and the bonds we share. Over ten years, our association has not only nurtured sporting talent but built a stronger, more united community. Events like this remind us of our journey and inspire our children to dream bigger.”
The atmosphere was joyful and inclusive, with laughter echoing across the park. The day served not just as a celebration, but as a powerful reminder of why heritage matters. Such events educate and uplift, instilling pride and helping to raise aspirations within the community. They also highlight how understanding history contributes to human progress, by shaping identity, building empathy, and guiding future generations with lessons from the past.
As part of the day’s emphasis on community responsibility and active citizenship, volunteers organised a community litter pick across the park. Children and adults joined in, bags and gloves in hand, showing that clean, safe, and respected neighbourhoods are something to take pride in and protect. These acts of care promote not only cleaner spaces, but a stronger sense of unity and belonging.
Commenting on this community service Rashid Ali, Chair of the Inner London Football League, praised the volunteers, stating:
“The Osmaninagar Sporting Association sets a shining example. It’s more than football and it’s about inspiring leadership, promoting civic values, and building the foundations of a proud, cohesive community.”
Among the guests were respected figures and community contributors including Jakir Ahmed, Jawar Ali, double District Cup winner Sayfur Rahman, Kabir Miah, Anam Hoque, Shujad Miah, Shahajan Miah, and Abjal Miah, all showing support for the association’s continued impact.
As families packed up, many left with smiles, memories—and a deeper sense of belonging.