Core Team
Our core team is the heart of Prabaasee Association, driven by dedication and a shared love for culture and community. Together, we work to preserve traditions, serve society, and spread joy through every initiative.
Mr. Alok Chanda
Convenor
From a fauji (military) family — living across various corners of the country became a habit. Yet, spending my childhood in a suburban school helped me master the art of playing the dhak (traditional drum).
Even if you find a dhak abroad during Durga Puja, finding a dhaki (drummer) is rare. That’s how I stayed back, got involved, and became one of a few in this Probashi (diaspora) community.
It must have been the 1980s, because I remember watching Platini play in the Football World Cup on a black-and-white television at Royda’s house.
Prabaasee — in my words — is an extended family, beyond blood relations. We are all its members. From delivering fish to fixing the bride for a wedding, holding up the dhoti’s pleats and helping the groom wear his topor, feeding the expectant mother during her ritual meal to finally lifting someone on the bamboo bier — these are the people who do it all. That’s who we call a Probashi.
We are a medium-sized Bengali organisation. Our identity isn’t limited to just a few festivals and celebrations. Our aim is to preserve our culture and carry forward our existence — to pass the baton of heritage to the younger generation, the way our forebears did for us. Many of them are no longer with us today . Let us never forget their contributions.
I hope and truly believe that, to the best of our ability, our organisation will selflessly serve society, valuing sincerity over showmanship. And even in our absence, may this Probashi be remembered for its meaningful actions.
Mr. S. K. Chakraborty
President
"Prabaasee Association has always represented more than just a community organization—it has been, and continues to be, an extended family. From its inception, the association has upheld the values of cultural unity, mutual support, and collective well-being. It has been deeply fulfilling to witness the positive impact Prabaasee has had in nurturing a strong sense of belonging among its members.
As we look toward the future, one of my ongoing commitments is to support the growth of our member base and foster greater engagement across all age groups. True progress lies in inclusive participation, where every member contributes meaningfully and shares in the spirit of togetherness.
Among the many cherished moments over the years, every year Durga Puja celebrations remain particularly significant. These events not only uphold our cultural heritage but also create lasting memories of joy, unity, and celebration. The vibrant participation and the warmth shared during these festivities reflect the very essence of what Prabaasee stands for.
As a founding member, I take immense pride in our journey so far and remain deeply committed to the continued growth and enrichment of our association."
Mr. Kanakmoy Das
Vice President
What does Prabaasee means to you?
Prabaasee is more than just a cultural association to me; it is a vibrant thread that connects me to my roots and the rich heritage and culture of Bengal. Having been part of its journey for decades, I have witnessed its transformation from a small team of highly dedicated individuals committed to celebrating the spirit of togetherness, tradition, and shared identity of Bengalis, to a thriving community. I am proud of my contributions in helping shape and grow the Association to its current form. Probaasee holds a very special place in my heart, as it embodies the collective memories, friendships, and cultural pride that have shaped my life over the years. It is a testament to the enduring bond of Bengalis coming together to keep their traditions alive, no matter where they are.
What action can I take for its progress?
I hope to see Prabaasee Association continue to grow, not just in members but in terms of strengthening it’s focus on keeping alive the glorious traditions of Bengalis, while learning and gaining from the culture of Karnataka. I am happy to guide the younger members and share the learning and experience gathered over the last few decades.
Thoughtful memory you want to share
I often reflect on the spirit of sacrifice and sincere devotion that the founder members exhibited, as they laid the grounds to set up the Association. In the early days, funds were limited, however the inadequacy of funds was more than compensated by the hard work, enthusiasm and commitment of the members. They invested a lot of personal time and energy in the formative years and their efforts have helped create a strong and cohesive Association which upholds the rich tradition of Bengalis.
Mr. Supriyo Batabyal
General Secretary
"To me, Prabaasee Association is not just a platform — it’s a purpose. As a leader, it represents the spirit of community, the strength of shared values, and the power of belonging. It is where I’ve learned that leadership is less about authority and more about responsibility — the responsibility to connect, to uplift, and to empower since 1996.
As someone deeply committed to the growth of Prabaasee Association, I believe progress is a blend of purposeful direction, consistent execution, and collective engagement. Here are the key actions I would take to ensure our continued evolution:
1. Strengthen Member Engagement & Belonging : I would initiate more interactive, inclusive programs that cater to all age groups—cultural, educational, and professional. Regular feedback loops will help us stay relevant and responsive to member aspirations.
2. Build Strategic Partnerships : Collaborations with like-minded organizations, businesses, and cultural bodies will help expand our influence, create value for our members, and bring in new resources—financial, intellectual, and social.
3. Promote Youth Involvement & Leadership : Our youth are the future of Prabaasee. I’ll focus on grooming young leaders, encouraging them to take ownership of events, contribute ideas, and represent the association in wider platforms.
4. Preserve and Promote Cultural Identity : Through festivals, language promotion, and heritage events, I’d ensure that the roots of our identity remain strong while being presented in fresh, engaging formats that attract wider participation.
5. Digital Transformation & Visibility : I’d prioritize a stronger digital presence—revamping our website, social media, and communication tools. A smarter digital strategy will amplify our voice, simplify engagement, and attract new members.
6. Transparent Governance & Structured Planning : With clear goals, timely execution, and accountable reporting, I would establish a system of governance that builds trust, ensures continuity, and nurtures future leadership.
7. Celebrate Achievements & Share Stories : Regularly recognizing members’ contributions and sharing success stories will fuel pride and motivation across the community.
In essence, my focus would be on building a stronger, more connected, and future-ready Prabaasee—grounded in values, but bold in vision. Every step I take will be driven by the belief that when we grow together, we grow stronger.
Among the many moments that have shaped my journey with Prabaasee Association, one memory that stands out vividly is the day we organized our first large-scale cultural evening post-pandemic. The atmosphere was electrictrifying —children rehearsing backstage, elders helping with decorations, volunteers running around with last-minute arrangements, and the entire hall echoing with laughter, music, and a sense of togetherness we had all longed for. What made it truly special was not just the event itself, but the spirit behind it. People came not just to perform or watch, but to rebuild the warmth of community that had been paused for a while. I remember standing quietly for a moment in a corner, watching generations of our members—young and old—celebrating our shared identity with pride. That evening reminded me of why Prabaasee is more than an association; it’s a family.
It was in that moment I realized the real strength of our community lies not in grand plans, but in simple, heartfelt connections. And as a leader, few things are more rewarding than witnessing that unity in action."
Mr. Kaushik Sur
Treasurer
"Serving as the Treasurer of Prabaasee Association has been a role of immense responsibility and deep personal satisfaction. Among the many moments that stand out, one thoughtful memory I often reflect upon is the meticulous planning and execution of our Durga Puja celebrations.
Managing the finances of such a large-scale event—ensuring transparency, accountability, and timely disbursements—was both challenging and rewarding. What made it truly memorable was witnessing how every rupee spent translated into joy, cultural pride, and a sense of belonging for our members and guests.
From coordinating budgets to mobilizing community support and sponsorships, the experience reinforced for me how financial stewardship can directly support the emotional and cultural fabric of a community. It was a proud moment to see the association uphold its values while maintaining financial discipline, all with collective effort and trust.
This memory remains a testament to how the role of Treasurer is not just about managing numbers, but about enabling meaningful experiences for the entire Prabaasee family."
Mr. Deep Banerjee
Executive Member
"Prabaasee Association, to me, is not just an organisation — it is my extended family.. A family that carries the soul of Bengal in its heart while living far away from it. We are bound by our love for our traditions, our language, our festivals, and most importantly, for each other.
Prabaasee is more than Durga Puja, Kali Puja,. it is about the warmth of shared meals, the joy of music and dance, the colours of art, and the deep pride in our heritage. It is about ensuring that our children, born and raised here, grow up with a sense of belonging to our roots.
But beyond culture, Prabaasee is also compassion in action. Through our charitable initiatives — whether it is supporting underprivileged children, standing beside families in crisis, or contributing to causes that uplift lives — we have shown that our identity is as much about giving as it is about celebrating.
Prabaasee to me is a bridge. A bridge between home and homeland, between tradition and modern life, between joy and responsibility. It is not just a Bengali organisation — it is a celebration of togetherness.It is where our hearts meet, where our voices unite, and where we prove that even far from Bengal, the Bangali spirit is alive and thriving."