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In a world where hunger is still a pressing issue, people often do bad things just to survive. The situation is even more challenging in countries like Bangladesh, where poverty is widespread. However, amidst all the hardship, some still strive to do good deeds every day and inspire others to do the same.
One such person is Ariful Rahman, the co-founder of Bhalo Kajer Hotel, an organisation in Bangladesh that aims to positively impact society.
Ariful Rahman, the co-founder of Bhalo Kajer Hotel, had a passion for doing good deeds from a young age. It all started when he was in grade 5-6 and watched a play called 'Shobuj Chaya' by Humayun Ahmed.
The lead actor, Jahid Hasan, made a deep impression on him when he clapped his hands and made a 'ke ku ke ku' sound, motivating him to do a good deed every day.
Years later, in 2009, Ariful Rahman was studying at university and began thinking about how he could inspire others to do good deeds.
He gathered his Juniors and friends, and together they began to treat unprivileged children by providing them with food and education. They gathered data from numerous newspapers and used it to help people needing healthcare.
Their work did not go unnoticed, and in 2010, their efforts were recognised when a report about their organisation was shown on 'Ityadi' hosted by Hanif Sanket, which provided the organisation with the opportunity to work extensively.
Despite its success, the organisation has faced numerous challenges over the years. When it started in 2009, Mr Rahman said, "Since we were students, nobody took us seriously. They told us to concentrate on our education or employment when we sought or engaged them for funding."
"However, I will need support from others once I've grown old enough to be properly established. Then, how can I help others?"
Ariful further said, "We still deal with many issues daily. There are instances when the number of visitors exceeds our capacity to feed everyone. We are unable to feed everyone as a result. For instance, we serve meals for five hotels in Dhaka; in 2 of them, we can do so for 30 days; in the other 3, we are unable to do so."
It had limited exposure on social media, and the scope of asking people for funding for charity was low. As it was run by students, people did not take the organisation seriously.
When it approached or engaged someone for funding, they advised it to focus on studies or jobs and establish social services later. However, the organisation remained committed to its cause and persevered.
Charity organisations exist to make a positive impact on society by providing aid to those in need. They rely on funding from various sources to keep their operations running smoothly.
Bhalo Kajer Hotel relied on the same way; the kindness of certain individuals.
Mr Ariful Rahman shared, "The main source of money for the organisation used to come from its 8–10 members, who each gave 10 takas per day to a carton or 300 takas per month. However, over time, it has expanded to about 2300 members who each give Tk 300 every month to help the organisation to do its work and also donations from the community, fundraising events, and sponsorships. So they showed how little one needs to help someone's daily sufferings.
The organisation aims to make Bangladesh known for its charitable work and inspire others to do the same. It envisions a future where people worldwide acknowledge Bangladesh's efforts to make a difference and help others in need.
This organisation's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and commitment to a cause. Despite facing numerous challenges, it remains committed to its cause and continues to inspire others to do the same.
Its reliance on community support is a testament to the importance of community involvement in making a positive impact on society.
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