Saarc cookbook launch raises funds for healthcare, education in Bangladesh

The Dhaka chapter of the Saarc Women's Association (SWA) today launched its much-anticipated cookbook, Flavours of Unity – Saarc Culinary Journey, celebrating South Asian cuisine and the enduring friendship among the nations.

The cookbook brings together recipes contributed by women from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, reflecting the diversity of regional flavours and cultural bonds that define South Asian identity.

The launch was attended by Asma Said Khan, founder of London's Darjeeling Express, renowned for her all-women kitchen and advocacy for women's empowerment through food.

Founded in 1996, the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation Women's Association has been committed to fostering goodwill and friendship among the women of South Asia. Through cultural exchange, art, music, and cuisine. The association has worked tirelessly to strengthen people-to-people connections across the region.

For nearly three decades, the association has supported vital healthcare and education programs, including:

• Bangladesh Shishu Hospital & Institute (29 years):

Supplying essential medical equipment for the High Dependency Unit (HDU) and Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

• Ispahani Islamia Eye Institute & Hospital (27 years):

Sponsoring critical eye surgeries for patients from low-income backgrounds.

• Bhawanipur Girls Orphanage, Gazipur:

Providing regular support and essential supplies for orphaned girls.

• "Adopt a Child" Education Program (in partnership with Jaago Foundation):

Offering educational support and the opportunity for a brighter future.

• Munshiganj Schools Initiative:

Constructing sanitation facilities and providing merit scholarships for deserving students.

These initiatives exemplify the Association's continuous effort to uplift communities, empower women, and improve lives through sustainable and targeted interventions.

This year's fundraising efforts through the launch of Flavours of Unity will directly contribute to expanding and sustaining these vital programmes.

"We believe that food has the extraordinary power to unite people," said Sonya Panni, president of the Saarc Women's Association, Dhaka.

"Through this cookbook, we honour not just recipes, but the shared memories, connections, and values that bind our region together. And through our fundraising, we reaffirm our commitment to transforming lives across Bangladesh," she added.