“Honouring Indigenous Midwives: Their Contribution to the Protection of Life and Well-being”—with this theme, the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples 2026 was observed worldwide on 9 August 2026.
Marking the occasion, various programmes were organised with due dignity and enthusiasm in the Bandarban, Bolipara, and Khagrachari Parishes of the Chattogram Catholic Archdiocese. The programmes brought together Catholic faithful from different Indigenous communities to pray for their well-being and to celebrate their rich cultural heritage, identity, and traditions.
The observance aimed not only to express respect for the life, culture, traditions, rights, and dignity of Indigenous peoples, but also to pray for their well-being and prosperity. The programmes also highlighted the importance of preserving Indigenous cultures and traditions and passing them on to future generations.
Bandarban Parish
In Bandarban Parish, a special Holy Mass was offered for the health, peace, and overall well-being of Indigenous brothers and sisters. The faithful of the parish participated in the Eucharistic celebration and offered special prayers for the protection of Indigenous peoples, their cultural heritage, and the promotion of their rights. The Holy Mass was presided over by Rev. Fr. Sudhir Das, CSC, Parish Priest of Bandarban.
Following the Holy Mass, a cultural programme was organised at the parish auditorium with the participation of members of the Tripura community. Traditional songs, dances, and cultural performances of the Tripura community added colour and joy to the celebration.
One of the highlights of the programme was the decoration of the stage with various traditional objects and materials representing their cultural heritage. Through these decorations and cultural presentations, the participants proudly showcased their rich traditions and cultural identity.
Bolipara Parish
Bolipara Parish also organised a series of programmes throughout the day to mark the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples. A Holy Mass was offered with the participation of parishioners and local community members. Special prayers were offered for the peace, health, security, rights, and overall well-being of Indigenous peoples.
Following the Holy Mass, the faithful took part in an awareness-raising rally. The rally conveyed messages highlighting the importance of protecting the rights, dignity, culture, and traditions of Indigenous peoples.
A cultural programme was subsequently organised with the participation of the faithful. Traditional songs, dances, and cultural performances from different Indigenous communities were presented during the event.
A wall magazine entitled “ Ami Adibasi, Ami gorbito” was also unveiled on the occasion. The wall magazine conveyed a strong message of pride in Indigenous identity, culture, traditions, and dignity.
The programme was attended by Rev. Fr. Shital Rosario, CSC, Parish Priest of Bolipara, and Rev. Fr. Sushil Soren, CSC, Assistant Parish Priest. They highlighted the significance of the day and emphasised the importance of respecting, promoting, and preserving the culture and traditions of Indigenous peoples.
Khagrachari Parish
In Khagrachari Parish, a special programme was also organised to mark the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples. A Holy Mass was celebrated with the participation of the parishioners. Special prayers were offered for the peace, health, security, and just rights of Indigenous peoples. The Holy Mass was offered by Rev. Fr. Leonard Rebeiro, Parish Priest of Khagrachari.
Following the Eucharistic celebration, an awareness and discussion session on the protection, rights, and dignity of Indigenous peoples was organised with the participation of the faithful.
The discussion focused on various aspects of Indigenous life, cultural diversity, preservation of traditions, rights, and security. Particular emphasis was placed on the role of families, society, the Church, and young people in protecting Indigenous cultures and identities in the present context.
Mr. Chayan Hubert Rebeiro, Acting Regional Director of Caritas Chattogram Region, was present as a special guest at the discussion. He highlighted the importance of mutual cooperation and greater awareness in promoting the rights, dignity, and overall development of Indigenous peoples.
The observance of the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples in various parishes of the Chattogram Catholic Archdiocese conveyed a strong message of the Church’s respect, solidarity, and commitment towards the culture, traditions, identity, rights, and dignity of Indigenous peoples.
Through Holy Masses, prayers, awareness rallies, cultural programmes, and discussion sessions, the celebrations also highlighted the shared responsibility of protecting the lives and well-being of Indigenous communities.
The programmes demonstrated that the observance of the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples goes beyond commemorating a particular day. They provided an opportunity to honour Indigenous cultures and traditions, promote awareness of their rights, and strengthen mutual respect, harmony, solidarity, and compassion within society.
The celebrations also served as a meaningful reminder that preserving cultural diversity and ensuring the dignity and rights of Indigenous peoples are shared responsibilities that require the active participation of families, communities, the Church, and especially the younger generation.
