DREAMING OF A BETTER LIFE

In a family of eight brothers, three brothers- Mohammad Aftab, Mohammad Samsad, and Mohammad Nausad, owners of Fayzany Madina Biryani House, grew up struggling for basic rights. Today, they work for their community and bring betterment to their society by helping those who are deprived of the same rights. 

"In the Bihari community, it was very difficult for us to get jobs and proper education. We were involved in a lot of karchupi work, but after the government changed, we lost our jobs," says Nausad. Their uncle gave them the idea of running a biryani house which is always a good business in the country. "With the opening of the biryani house, we found a way to finally give back to the society," says Nausad. 

With almost 80 customers per day, they also cater to weddings and other events. One problem the Bihari community has faced throughout their years is when it comes to marrying off their daughters. "Even though the tradition of dowry has been eradicated in many places, it still persists in our community. There aren't any rich families living in the camp and giving the amount asked for indowry, is usually impossible. Many girls end up not being able to get married at all," says Nausad. 

Photo: Kazi Tahsin Agaz Apurbo

Because those living in the camp have a kind of bond with each other, the brothers found a way to give back to their community. "We sometimes donate our profits to families with dowry problems," he says. "We also donate to sick patients who need money for treatment. Basically, we help out whoever needs financial aid." The brothers have also hired two cooks for their biryani business- Kalam and Ashfaque, of whom one is deaf and mute. Finding a job as a deaf and mute man in this country is next to impossible, but the brothers have trusted him fully and deservingly. The popularity of their biryani house has stemmed from having a mute cook and is now informally known around the city as 'Boba Biryani'. "There have also been many allegations against our community for dealing drugs. My brothers and I are currently trying to eradicate that reputation by handing those who deal over. I believe once these practices are removed from our society, we can hope to thrive and finally get opportunities to start living a normal life," he says.