Rain Could Not Dampen the Spirit of JHAAC Canada’s Annual Summer Picnic!

Toronto, Canada, 13 August 2026: Neither the grey skies nor the early rain could diminish the warmth of friendship and community spirit as JHAAC Canada held its annual Summer Picnic on 18 July 2026 at Morningside Park in Scarborough.

The much-anticipated gathering brought together approximately 60 alumni and nearly 250 participants, including family members, friends and younger generations. For many attendees, the picnic was more than a recreational outing—it was an opportunity to renew old friendships, strengthen community bonds and create new memories with loved ones.

Despite the challenging weather at the beginning of the day, participants arrived with enthusiasm and quickly transformed the park into a lively meeting place. The programme featured barbecue, snacks, lunch, fresh fruits, ice cream, refreshments, music and a range of activities designed especially for younger participants.

Despite an early spell of rain, around 250 alumni, family members and friends joined the vibrant gathering at Morningside Park.

The success of the event reflected the dedication, teamwork and careful preparation of the JHAAC Executive Committee. Committee members worked collectively to ensure that participants of all ages could enjoy a welcoming, well-organised and memorable day.

Alumni and their families enjoyed a day of friendship, recreation and community connection at HHAAC Canada’s annual picnic. Photo: Supplied

The picnic was supported by contributions from participants and generous sponsorships from Gautam Paul, Shyamol Debnath, Tapash Koyal, Hari Gobinda Roy, Nilay Saha and many others. Organisers expressed their sincere appreciation to everyone whose financial and logistical support helped make the gathering possible.

Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of volunteers worked tirelessly to manage food preparation, distribution, activities and other organisational responsibilities. The volunteer team included Niranjan Sarker Bachhu, Amit Sarker, Priyatosh Bhowmick, Shaibal Chowdhury, Biswajit Mitra, Mridul Dey and Dipankar Das Gupta, along with several other community members.

Their commitment became particularly important as the organisers adapted to the rainy conditions. Through cooperation and careful coordination, the team ensured that the day’s programme continued smoothly and that participants remained comfortable and engaged.

A solemn tribute to Mantu

Amid the celebrations, the gathering paused for a deeply emotional moment following the announcement of the passing of Mantu Da, a beloved senior and founding member of JHAAC.

Participants observed a one-minute silence in his memory and offered prayers for the eternal peace of his departed soul. The tribute reflected the affection and respect he had earned within the alumni community, as well as the lasting contribution he made to the organisation during its formative years.

The alumni community remembered Mantu Da not only as a founding member but also as a valued senior whose contribution would remain part of JHAAC’s collective history.

Organisers also extended their prayers and best wishes for the continued health, happiness and well-being of all alumni, their families and friends.

Encouraging the next generation

One of the most significant features of this year’s picnic was the Youth Engagement Program, which received an excellent response from younger participants and their families.

The initiative provided an opportunity for the second generation to become more actively involved in the alumni community while developing connections with their cultural and community heritage. Its enthusiastic reception encouraged organisers to consider broader and more meaningful youth-focused programmes in the future.

JHAAC Canada said community ideas, participation and continued support would be essential in shaping the next phase of these initiatives. By engaging young people, the organisation hopes to build stronger intergenerational relationships and ensure that its tradition of friendship, cooperation and community service continues into the future.

The picnic concluded with a shared sense of happiness and accomplishment. What began under rainy skies ultimately became a memorable celebration of resilience, friendship and collective effort.

The success of the day demonstrated that the strength of an alumni organisation rests not only in its formal activities but also in the relationships maintained across generations. Through the enthusiasm of participants, the commitment of volunteers and the generosity of sponsors, JHAAC Canada’s annual Summer Picnic once again became a meaningful celebration of community life.

-OTN Bangla