Tag: Gmb Akash

Lifting a Family, One Act of Kindness at a Time!

Dear Friends,

I met Sujan Mandol three years ago — a humble, hardworking man who has endured life’s deepest sorrows. His only son drowned a few years ago, and since then, he has been the sole provider for his family of five. One of his daughters is disabled, and though he suffers from health issues himself, he never lets his struggles defeat him. Every day, he used to rent an auto-rickshaw, paying 800 taka before he could earn a single taka.

By the grace of God, I was able to buy him his own auto-rickshaw worth 1,30,000 taka. Now he can finally earn freely, without rent or debt, and with peace in his heart. This rickshaw is not just a vehicle; it is freedom, dignity, and hope for his entire family.

Many of you might remember his daughter, Taposhi. For the past three years, I have been supporting her education. She achieved a Golden A+ in SSC and passed HSC this year with an ‘A’. Her dream is to become a doctor, to heal and give back. I have also taken full responsibility for her younger sister’s education, who is now in class 9 another brilliant student and shares the same dream.

Please keep Taposhi and her family in your prayers.

May her father’s hard work and her determination light the way to a better life filled with dignity and hope.

Love and Light

_GMB Akash

A Gift of Life: 7 Deep Water Pumps Installed, Bringing Clean Water to Hundreds of Families!

I have been working on this project for many years, and I will continue, because water is life. People may survive without many things, but they cannot survive without water.

Through years of hard work, sweat, and dedication, I am proud to present these deep water pumps as my gift to the people. Each pump costs around 90,000 Taka ($900) to install, but the joy, hope, and health it brings are priceless.

Finding the right locations, buying all the materials, carrying them into the villages, and installing the pumps with the help of skilled technicians is no small task—it is truly challenging work. But every effort is worth it when I see families able to drink, cook, and live with dignity.

Khadija Begum shared with me, “We have severe water problems. It’s hard to explain how bad it is. To prepare for prayers, I have to walk far to fetch water or use dirty pond water, which dries up in summer.”

Many villages in Bangladesh face a serious shortage of clean drinking water. These deep tube wells are not just pumps—they are gifts of hope, health, and life. More than 150 families will now have safe water to drink, cook, and live with dignity.

I wish I could do more, and I will continue to try. My friends, this work is not easy, but every drop of water we bring is a gift that changes lives. Please keep me in your prayers, so I can continue this journey of serving those in need, of bringing light where there is darkness, and life where it is most precious.

With love, hope, and gratitude,

GMB Akash

The Hands Behind Paradise!

I arrived in the Maldives late in the evening. The air was warm, the sky fading into night. On the ferry to Malé, I heard voices that felt familiar — people speaking in Bangla.

The ferry driver and his helper were chatting in my mother tongue. I smiled and shook the helper’s hand.

“I’m from Bangladesh too,” I said.

He laughed, “You don’t look Bangladeshi with that curly hair!”

Just like that, I didn’t feel like a tourist anymore.

At my hotel, just a short walk from the ferry, another Bangladeshi man came to help with my bags.

“Brother, if you need anything, just call me,” he said. “I’ll be there.”

I hadn’t realized how many Bangladeshis lived and worked here. In fact, they now make up around 57% of all migrants in the Maldives — over half of the country’s entire foreign workforce. I met them in shops, markets, restaurants, even in mosques — everywhere, quietly shaping life behind the scenes.

People think of the Maldives as luxury resorts and postcard beaches. But take a local ferry, sit at a tea stall, walk the harbor at dawn — and you’ll find something else.

You’ll find the hands that make this paradise work.

And many of them are Bangladeshi.

I met Brother Sohel after his shift on a boat. Without asking, he walked into a shop and returned with a cold juice.

“You’re from home,” he smiled. “That’s enough reason.”

Many sleep on the boats they work on. No beds, no fans — just benches and waves. Still, they smile.

Habib from Cumilla told me:

“We’re happy here. We have work. We feel safe. Back home… too much tension.”

Some haven’t seen family in 3–4 years. They miss their mothers, their children, the smell of rice cooking at home. But they work, stay strong, and send money back with hope.

These are not just workers.

They are builders.

They are dreamers.

They left home not for luxury, but for survival.

You won’t find their names in travel guides.

But without them, this paradise would not exist.

They came with hope.

And built something beautiful — with their hands, and with their hearts.

— GMB Akash

They Flee to Survive!

I’ve seen mothers with nothing to feed their newborns—no food, no shelter, no comfort.
They walked through mud and water, soaked and shaking, holding their babies close with nothing but fear and silent prayers.

In Greece, I saw families arrive at midnight in rubber boats, crossing a dark, angry sea with nothing but hope.
In Bangladesh, Rohingya refugees crossed through flooded rice fields—barefoot, carrying children, carrying pain.

In Pakistan, I visited camps where time stands still, and every face carries a story the world has forgotten.
Children with no shoes and eyes that have seen too much.
Women who gave birth in the middle of chaos, with no help, no home.

Every year, more than 35 million people are forced to flee their homes because of war, persecution, hunger, and fear.
Not one of them asked for this life.
No one becomes a refugee by choice.
They flee to survive.

Every refugee carries a story of unthinkable loss—and a strength the world must never ignore.
— GMB Akash

They Gave Us Everything. We Gave Them Loneliness.

I witnessed life unfolding slowly inside an elderly home—where the silence was heavy, and every corner whispered stories of love that time left behind.

I saw a mother sitting quietly by the door—not to feel the sun, but because her heart still waits for the child who once said, “I’ll be back soon.”

I saw fathers staring into the distance, their eyes filled with memories no one asks about anymore. Faces that once smiled for us now wear only the weight of waiting.

In those small rooms, I witnessed a lifetime of sacrifices—folded into worn-out clothes and faded photographs.

Love once loud, now buried in silence.

And one day, I saw a mother take her last breath. She left this world with her eyes still searching the doorway. No one from her family came—not even to say goodbye.

She left with love in her heart, and an empty chair beside her bed.

But I also saw something else—moments when a son or daughter finally came to visit. How their eyes lit up, how their hands trembled with joy. Some cried quietly, others sobbed with their whole being. The happiness, the emotions, the tears… they made the walls come alive again, even if just for a moment.

They gave us everything: their strength, their dreams, their sleepless nights.

And now, they ask for almost nothing—just a little time, a familiar voice, a hand to hold.

Not to be forgotten.

Just… to be remembered.

— GMB Akash

The True Meaning of Richness!

My heart honors the people who have almost nothing—yet live with everything that truly matters.

They rise before dawn and work until their bodies ache, just to survive another day. Life is harsh and unforgiving—yet they never complain. They never beg. They never give up.

They live with quiet dignity, and every single penny they earn comes from honest labor.

Yesterday, a worker said something to me that still lingers in my mind. He said:

“Brother, our life is hard. We work from early morning until night. Last night, I couldn’t sleep for even a minute because of the heat. In the morning, I ate rice with just salt and water. But you know what? Every time we eat—even that—we say Alhamdulillah. We are grateful.”

In their simplicity, I see greatness—rich in values, strong in spirit, and full of grace.

_ GMB Akash

I See Humans, Not the Poor!

People often blame me and say hurtful things because I photograph the working class instead of luxurious lifestyles, high-rise buildings, or beautiful beaches.

But I don’t see them as poor.
I see them as human beings full of strength, dignity, and resilience—people with fewer opportunities, not less value. They work endlessly for their families, without complaint, without rest. Even with little, they live with more hope and gratitude than most of us.

Many assume that those who have less are unhappy. But I’ve seen the opposite.
They don’t chase status or bank balances—they live for today and find joy in the smallest things.

From my childhood, I saw children working in factories. I saw workers trapped in endless cycles of low wages and long hours. I saw day laborers who build our cities with their hands, yet live invisible lives.

No one wanted to hear their stories.
No one cared to look.
But if they stop working, our world stops moving.

My mission has always been to create awareness—to tell stories that deserve to be seen.

I don’t capture poverty—I capture strength.
The strength to survive, to dream, and to never give up.

— GMB Akash

For the Ones Who Feel Invisible!

I’m sharing this from the heart—not to glorify myself, but to give strength to those who are walking alone. If you’re wondering whether honesty and hard work still matter—I promise you, they do.

Sometimes, I feel a quiet kind of pride. A peaceful dignity.
Not because I’ve achieved something extraordinary—but because I have lived free.
For the last 25 years, I’ve walked my own path. I never had a boss. Never had a godfather or godmother. No powerful friend to open doors or push my name forward.

Whatever little I have achieved—it came from honesty, hard work, and belief.
I never begged for work. I never flattered anyone to get ahead. I never asked to be promoted or praised. I only had my camera, my stories, and the love of the people I work for and with.

Yes, the journey was hard—lonely at times.
But I’ve never compromised.
And that is my greatest achievement.

I’ve seen people rise fast—some with little passion but big connections.
I’ve seen awards, exhibitions, and fame handed over easily—while many real artists remain unseen.
But I still believe… that truth cuts through the noise.

That if you stay honest and keep doing the work that matters, your voice will find its way.

So to those who are struggling—to those who feel invisible:
Stay true. Be patient. Trust your journey.

Let your work speak before you do.

That’s the kind of success that no one can take away from you.

_ GMB Akash

Not to Sadden, But to Awaken.

The workers are working in an aluminum cooking pot manufacturing factory in Dhaka.

I don’t photograph struggle, suffering, or the lives of the underprivileged to make people sad.
I create to open eyes—to reveal the unseen strength, quiet beauty, and unshakable resilience of those who have so little, yet carry the weight of the world with unmatched courage and grace.

A girl child is working in a factory where they make screws for construction in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Yes, pain is real. But so is hope.
And sometimes, a single image can awaken something deep within us—a sense of empathy, a moment of reflection, or the courage to change.

If my work can touch even one heart, it has fulfilled its purpose.

— GMB Akash

Telling Stories the World Wants to Ignore!

The kind of photography I do isn’t easy to sustain. Year after year, it takes everything from you.

People often say my photos are too sad or too heavy. They show poverty, pain, and struggle—realities many would rather not see. In a world that prefers beauty, luxury, and curated happiness, my images make some uncomfortable. They don’t hang on walls. They don’t sell. But they are real.

Still, I keep going.

Why?

Because someone must. Because these stories matter. Behind every image is a life that deserves to be seen.

As documentary photographers, we walk a lonely road. There is no industry behind us. No brands sponsoring our purpose. We carry our own weight—travel, gear, food, everything—because this work demands it. Not for profit, but for truth.

I want to bring positive change.
To show what must not continue. To highlight what needs our attention. If my work inspires someone to care, to act, to be more human—that’s the true reward. That’s the meaning of all our sacrifices.

This work isn’t easy, but it is necessary.
And as long as I have a camera, I’ll keep telling stories that matter.

_ GMB Akash

I Chose Purpose Over Promotion!

There was a time when I didn’t know better.

I thought saying yes to promotions and endorsements would help me grow, make me more visible. I said yes a few times — to brands, companies, campaigns — without truly understanding what I was becoming a part of.

But slowly, I started to feel uncomfortable.
I saw how my face, my story, my name were being used — not to inspire, but to sell.
And sometimes, what was being sold wasn’t even true.

So I stopped.

I’ve made mistakes. I’ve taken wrong turns. But I’ve learned from each one of them. I’m still learning. I’m not perfect — just trying to stay honest in a world that often rewards the opposite.

Today, I say no to every offer that doesn’t align with my values — even when it comes with more money than I could ever imagine.

Because I didn’t become a photographer to sell things.

I became a photographer to serve people — to tell the stories that often go unseen.

I don’t want to use people to make a living. I want to use my lens to give them dignity and voice.

I live a simple life. I don’t have much.
But I carry what matters most — self-respect, truth, and peace of mind.

This is not a criticism of anyone else’s choices.
Everyone walks their own path.
This is simply mine.

And if sharing this helps even one person stay true to who they are, then it’s worth saying out loud.

We may not have much in our hands.
But if we have honesty in our hearts,
we already have everything.

_GMB Akash

Photographing What Hurts, Because It Matters!

I know many people don’t like my work on social media.
Because it stirs emotions.
Because it asks uncomfortable questions.
Because it reminds us of the humanity we often forget.

My photos don’t entertain — they confront.
They reveal painful truths: suffering, inequality, and the silent struggles of those left behind.

For 25 years, I’ve known my work may not get thousands of likes or shares.
But I’m not here for validation.
I’m here to create change — to honor resilience, to share stories of hope, and to remind us not to look away.

It’s easier to scroll past than to face reality.
Easier to pretend everything is fine.

But I will never stop.
Even if no one listens, even if no one thinks it matters — I will keep going.

Because life isn’t only about our own comfort.
Because caring is also living.
Because empathy still matters.

And I will keep showing what truly matters — until my last breath.

_GMB Akash

A Torn Dictionary, a Second-Hand Camera, and a Thousand Untold Stories!

From the very beginning of my journey, I was captivated by the images of Salgado, James Nachtwey, Reza Deghati, Alex Webb, David Alan Harvey, Cartier-Bresson — masters who told human stories with truth and soul.

Many of them used Leica. But for me, it was never just about the camera. It was about what they saw — the dignity, the depth, the human connection. Leica became a symbol of that kind of storytelling. Quietly, I dreamed of holding one someday.

But my beginning was far from any dream.

I started with a used Yashica FX-3 — my father’s old family camera. I didn’t even know photography could be a profession. No mentor. No internet. No books. Just an English manual — and I barely understood the language.

When I couldn’t afford a translator, I bought a torn, second-hand dictionary and taught myself both English and photography. Word by word. Frame by frame. With only hunger, heart, and hope.

I had one 50mm lens. Later, I borrowed gear from anyone who trusted me.

I gave tuition to buy film. Skipped meals to save for processing.

I shot weddings and fashion — not because I loved it, but to fund the work I truly cared about: telling the stories of people the world often overlooks.

At night, I turned our bathroom into a darkroom.

I developed rolls under red light until sunrise.

I spent years walking through slums, garment factories, brickfields, train stations, refugee camps, and forgotten alleys.

I entered brothels, disaster zones, hidden corners of cities, and remote villages — the kind of places people were too afraid to go.

I sat with people society ignored. I didn’t just photograph them — I listened.

It wasn’t easy. My fingers ached when I couldn’t shoot. My chest felt heavy.

Photography wasn’t what I wanted to do — it was what I needed to do.

And now, after 25 years, I’ve finally bought a Leica.

It’s not just a camera.

It’s a symbol of everything I’ve lived through — every roll, every story, every step.

This isn’t a story about gear.

It’s a story about purpose.

About belief, compassion, and never giving up.

— GMB Akash

Because the World Can Change!

The word ‘change’ is still a dream I refuse to give up on.

I’ve met children working in dark, dangerous places—their small hands worn like those of old men.

I’ve witnessed sex workers in despair, breaking down in tears—betrayed and abandoned by those they once trusted.

I’ve sat beside lonely souls in elderly homes, waiting endlessly for someone who never returns.

Drug addiction is increasing among the street children who live without a family, love and care. Bangladeshi youth are ‘huffing’ shoe glue, a drug locally called ‘Danti’, which is seriously harmful to mental and physical health. Up to 17 percent of street children in capital Dhaka are addicted to drugs

I’ve seen young boys fading away on the streets—lost to addiction before help could reach them.

I’ve seen tiny feet wandering through garbage dumps, searching for scraps just to survive.

I’ve seen mothers sleeping on sidewalks, wrapping their children in nothing but love beneath the open sky.

I’ve met street children with no home, no name, no hand to hold—yet still sharing their last piece of bread with a stray dog.

This journey has never been easy. It has left me heartbroken, sleepless, frustrated—and at times, hopeless.

But never without faith.

I still believe in miracles.

Because this world can change—if only we choose to care.

— GMB Akash

Dhaka’s Shipyard – Where Steel Meets Survival!

By GMB Akash

Along the Buriganga River in Dhaka, giant ships are repaired and rebuilt—not by machines, but by men with bare hands and unbreakable spirits. The shipyard is a world of fire, metal, and endless noise, where thousands of laborers work without safety gear, earning just enough to survive.

Most come from distant villages, chasing a better life. They sleep beside the ships they mend, risking everything each day. Over 200 ships are repaired here every year—fueling our economy, but costing these men their youth, health, and often, their dreams.

In their silent struggle, I see courage. In their worn faces, I find stories the world needs to know.

In the Shadows of Rising Waters!

Every year, Bangladesh faces devastating floods that claim lives and leave millions homeless. In 2024 alone, over 5.8 million people were affected, 71 lives were lost, and damages soared to $1.2 billion.

Annually, disasters like floods, droughts, and storms inflict nearly $3 billion in losses, affecting over 6.3 million people.

These figures, while staggering, only hint at the personal tragedies—homes submerged, livelihoods destroyed, dreams washed away.

For over two decades, I have been documenting these stories through my lens, aiming to illuminate the resilience and dignity of those who face nature’s wrath with unwavering spirit.

Photographing the human cost of climate change is not just about images; it’s about empathy, understanding, and a call to action.

— GMB Akash

Stilt Fishing in Sri Lanka – A Vanishing Tradition!

In the coastal waters of southern Sri Lanka, fishermen rise with the sun and climb wooden stilts planted deep into the seabed. With no nets or boats, they balance silently, waiting for the right moment to catch a fish with a simple rod.

This age-old method, passed down through generations, speaks of resilience, harmony with nature, and a life shaped by the sea.

But as tourism grows and the ocean changes, fewer families rely on this tradition for survival. What was once a way of life is slowly fading into memory.

Wounds That Speak!

These feet don’t walk for comfort — they walk for survival.
Cracked, wounded, and caked in dust, they carry the silent weight of sacrifice, hunger, and unbreakable will.

Every scar tells a story — not just of pain, but of resilience, love, and the fight to build a better life.

These are not just feet — they are the quiet testimony of those who remain unseen, yet carry the world forward with bare hands and broken soles.
Their pain holds dignity. Their silence carries strength.

— GMB Akash

A Gift of Hope for Roksana’s Family!

By the grace of the Almighty, during the blessed month of Ramadan, I was able to arrange the means to buy a cow and a calf for Roksana and her husband, Monir Hossain — a gesture of hope for a family striving to survive.

Roksana and Monir live in a remote, struggling village with their two sons — 12-year-old Miad and 7-year-old Obaidullah. Monir pulls a rickshaw, but his fragile health, especially his breathing issues, doesn’t allow him to work every day. Roksana works tirelessly as a maid in the homes of others, though jobs are scarce and wages minimal. Sometimes, the families she serves share food with her — a humble blessing that helps them survive.

Now, with the cow and calf, a new chapter begins for them.

The cow gives around 3–4 kilograms of milk every day, which they sell for 300–400 Taka daily — nearly $100 a month. In their world, this is a lifeline. Every drop of milk they sell brings food to their table and hope to their hearts. Each year, the cow will give birth to another calf — a growing assurance of long-term stability.

The cow cost 100,000 Taka (around $920), with an additional 4,000 Taka ($37) for transportation. I also built a small shelter for the cow, provided for its food for a month, hung a mosquito net in its space, and even installed a fan to ensure the animal’s comfort.

It’s not just a cow — it’s a chance at life, at dignity and self-reliance.
This family, now sleeps with a bit more peace. They are overwhelmed with gratitude.

To all of you who continue to support, care, and pray — thank you. You may never meet them, but your compassion touches their lives in ways words can never truly explain.

Please remember Roksana, Monir, and their children in your prayers.

Love and light,
_GMB Akash

Through My Lens: A Life of Loss, Love, and Purpose!

I have witnessed loss, betrayal, grief, hunger, and suffering — but also joy, achievement, and love. My photographs are not just images; they are reflections of my own experiences, echoes of the life I have lived.

I have made mistakes. I have failed. I have been lost. But each misstep taught me something invaluable — about life, about resilience, and about myself. These struggles have shaped me, carving a deeper understanding of the world and the people I photograph.

Photography, for me, is not a career but a responsibility — to be a voice for the unheard, to bring attention to lives often overlooked. The unprivileged have no platform, their struggles buried in silence. Through my lens, I seek to make them seen, to stir hearts, to remind us of our shared humanity.

I never pursued photography for fame or gain, but for purpose — to connect, to give, to create change. I do not just take pictures; I seek meaning. My work is a constant search for truth, a reflection of the hope and pain that shape our existence.

In the end, I do not want to just exist — I want to leave something behind that matters.

#PhotographyForChange

#HumanityInFocus

#VoicesUnheard

#DocumentaryPhotography

#LifeThroughALens

#PurposeDrivenArt

#ResilienceAndHope

#StorytellingThroughPhotography

#UnseenLives

#legacyofmeaning

We want fair wages and safe workplaces for every mother!

Female textile worker Sayma (22) is working inside the factory building. Dulal Brothers Ltd. Kashimpur.Gazipur.

This Women’s Day, I stand with the working-class women who give everything to support their families. These mothers work long hours in tough conditions, often for unfair wages, with no protection or security. They are the unsung heroes of our society.

Today, I hope for a future where they are treated with the respect they deserve — where they earn fair wages for their hard work, have safe working conditions, and can rest knowing their children’s lives will be better. These women deserve a chance to build a future where their families can thrive, with equal opportunities for their children, safe environments, and dignity at work. Their strength is unbreakable, and it’s time we honor them by giving them the future they’ve earned.

#WomensDay#WorkingClassWomen#FairWagesForAll#SafeWorkplaces#RespectWomenWorkers#EmpowerMothers#EqualOpportunities#UnsungHeroes#DignityAtWork#fightforfairness

The Power of Love and Faith: Changing Lives, One Step at a Time!

Dear Friends,

Chadni was her mother’s greatest treasure. A mother who once prayed to God to trade everything she had just to keep her fragile, premature baby alive. Her husband, in silent devotion, sold his rickshaw to afford his daughter’s treatment, and together, they fought against fate. To Chadni’s mother, Chadni’s smile was more than just a moment of happiness; it was proof that love could defy the impossible, that faith could keep her world alive.

I took her heartwarming story 10 years ago. Over time and the cycle of fate, I found Chadni again 5 years ago and discovered that her parents were deeply conflicted about Chadni’s education and future.

Asma, a mother who had already endured so much, now faced another battle ensuring her daughter’s future. As a daily wage worker, she could barely provide food. I knew I had to step in. Since then, I have taken full responsibility for Chadni’s upbringing, ensuring she has access to education, food, clothing, and everything she needs as a child.

Today, my heart fills with joy as I witness Chadni starting 4th grade this year, taking one more step toward a brighter future!

By the grace of God, five years ago, I took on the responsibility of educating 30 children for their entire academic journey. Every month, I continue to do my best to support them, ensuring they complete their education and secure stable jobs.

My friends, your continued support, love, and faith in me make this journey possible. Nothing would have been easy without you all. Your kindness fuels my mission every single day.

Please keep me in your prayers so that I may continue to provide for these children until they achieve their dreams.

I am sharing with you some old and new pictures of Chadni—moments that remind us all that love, hope, and determination can change lives.

With Love and light,

_GMB Akash

A New Beginning for Santa and Her Father.

Dear Friends,

One of the most fulfilling parts of my work is helping people in need become self-sufficient. When I meet someone struggling, I try to understand their skills and needs through deep conversations. Then, I help them start a small business that can support their family and meet their basic needs — and sometimes even more. I find suppliers, gather materials, provide training, and continue to guide and encourage them.

Santa’s father was a cobbler who had to travel far for work, earning very little money. He was a widower, struggling to care for his 10-year-old daughter, Santa, who had fallen into drug use and often disappeared for nights at a time. Fearing for her safety, he felt helpless and even resorted to chaining her inside their home to keep her from harm.

After many discussions, we decided to set up a vegetable business for him on a custom-made rickshaw van. This way, he could sell vegetables anywhere and earn cash daily, while Santa could stay with him and start living a better life.

The business is now running, and we’ve taken Santa to a doctor to check her health and provide guidance for her recovery.

Santa’s father promised to take care of the business and his daughter, knowing it’s his responsibility to build a new life for both of them.

— GMB Akash

The Magic and Soul of Nepal!

Nepal holds a special place in my heart. I’ve traveled there more than 30 times, yet every visit feels as exciting as the first. There’s an almost otherworldly charm to this land—the crisp air of the mountains, sunrises that set the Himalayas ablaze with gold, and ancient temples that seem to whisper stories from centuries past.

The streets pulse with life, prayer flags flutter in the breeze, and the scent of incense drifts through winding alleys, mingling with the deep, meditative chants from monasteries. But above all, it’s the people who make Nepal truly extraordinary. Their kindness, strength, and ever-present smiles create a warmth that feels like home. No matter what challenges they face, they welcome you with open arms and hearts full of generosity.

For a photographer, Nepal is an endless source of inspiration. Every corner hides a new discovery—a sunlit alley, a quiet moment of devotion, or a pair of eyes that tell an untold story. Each journey leaves me with fresh perspectives and a growing love for this incredible place. Nepal isn’t just a destination for me—it’s a part of my soul. And no matter how many times I go, I know I’ll always return. _GMB Akash


#Nepal #TravelDiaries #ExploreMore #HimalayanMagic #Kathmandu #Pokhara #StreetPhotography #HumanStories #CulturalJourney #VisitNepal #AdventureLovers #NepaliPeople #TravelWithHeart #NatureAndCulture

Dhaka – A City of Dreams and Struggles!

This city holds endless dreams, pain, hope, and despair—yet no one ever stops.

People fight every day, chasing a better tomorrow with dreams in their hearts.

Every day, new faces arrive from villages, their eyes full of hope, their hearts carrying stories of struggle.

Their dreams, their hardships, their fight to survive—this is what inspires my photography.

In their eyes, I see the true beauty of life, the strength to keep going, and the endless will to survive.

Through their struggles, I find the real meaning of life…

Rising from Adversity!

Despite having roll number four, I couldn’t achieve good results because my family was going through severe financial hardships. Due to these struggles, I couldn’t focus on my studies properly. For me, my family is above everything else, and while prioritizing their well-being, I had to compromise with my education.

My sister is blind. Just before my SSC exams, my rickshaw driver father, managed to arrange her marriage after enduring many hardships. But while I was still sitting for my exams, my sister’s husband disappeared—leaving her behind. Not only that, he took all our money, the gold jewelry, everything. Later, we realized he had married her only for his financial gain.

Around that same time, my father had a heart attack. Suddenly, the weight of my entire family’s well-being fell on my shoulders. I had to split my day—half driving a rented rickshaw, half studying for my exams. After paying 500 taka to rent the rickshaw, What little remained had to cover both our household expenses and my education. Every single day felt like a battle I was losing.

It was in this ocean of despair that Akash Bhai appeared in my life, like a guardian angel from heaven. Listening to my problems he promised to give me a Auto Rikhahaw ‘Tuktuk’. And within a week he bought me a tuktuk with (1200$) almost 1 lakh and 30 thousands money.
Alhamdulillah, now I can earn almost 1000 taka par day. And can support my family and my studies.

I promised Akash Bhai that in my next exam, I would definitely achieve a good result. And I would work even harder to fulfill my dreams, and Inshallah, I would reach that place of my dreams—taking my family by my side.
_Jahidur

In Loving Memory: A Tribute to Julekha Khala and Uncle Alauddin

Many of you may remember Julekha Khala and uncle Alauddin whom I’ve shared about on my page several times.

From 2021, over the last 3 years, I took on the responsibilities of caring for them, like a son.

As many of you know, in 2021, I built a grocery store for Julekha Khala, as uncle Alauddin, bedridden in his 70s, was no longer able to earn for themselves. They were earning a good amount of money and living a happy life together for the last three years.

But it is with a very heavy heart that I share the sad news that recently, Auntie Julekha suddenly passed away and in her absence, it is almost certain that her 73 years old husband Alauddin, too, has passed in her absence within a week.

I will never forget the love and the blessings they always showered upon me during my every visit. Please keep them in your prayers.

May Allah (s.w.t.) grant them Jannatul-Firdaus, forgive their sins, and make their grave a place of comfort and light.

Ameen.

Bought a New Auto Rickshaw for Rakib: A New Beginning in His Life!

In a small village, Rakib’s life had been an extreme battle over the past year. After breaking his hand and losing his job at a local mill, he struggled to find work, leaving his family in a desperate situation. His wife faced her own hardships, often going without food and even struggling to afford milk for their baby.Alhamdulillah, last month I was able to buy them an auto-rickshaw, which has since become their lifeline.

This gift has truly transformed their lives. Rakib now earns 1,000 taka daily, offering much-needed relief for his family. The cost of the rickshaw was 1 lakh and 18 thousand taka (around $1,200).Thanks to your love and inspiration, their daily struggles have eased, and they are deeply grateful.

Please keep me in your prayers so that I can continue helping others.

With love and light,_GMB Akash

A New Beginning: Payara Sister’s Dream Home Brings Hope and Happiness!

A dream house has been built for Payara Apa! Her previous home was a broken hut that was barely livable, with water leaking through cracks and everything visible from the outside. You might recall her story where she said, “Last rainy season, I placed 18 plastic buckets on the floor because water was leaking through 18 cracks!” By the grace of Allah, she now has a new house with two rooms and an attached bathroom. This new beginning cost around 1,400 USD and took nearly two months to complete.

Five years ago, her world was turned upside down when her husband vanished without a trace, leaving her alone to care for their two daughters. With no other option, she worked tirelessly in a factory to support them. Despite her struggles, she managed to raise her daughters on her own. When it came time for their marriages, she even had to beg in the village as she never felt secure with her young daughter in that broken house.

Alhamdulillah, Payara Apa is now happily secure and proud of her new home. She is immensely grateful for all the well wishes, prayers, and support she has received.

As I continue on this journey to uplift the lives of those in need, I ask for your prayers and good wishes. Together, we can bring love and light to those who need it most.

_GMB Akash

A Heartfelt Farewell to Saleha Khala and Nuru ChaCha: Cherishing Their Love and Memories!

Many of you may remember the beautiful couple, Saleha Khala and Nuru ChaCha, whom I’ve shared about on my page several times.

Over the last 8 years, starting in 2017, I took on the responsibilities of caring for them, like a son.

As many of you know, in 2021, during Ramadan, Uncle Nuru passed away. After his passing, I continued to care for Saleha Khala in every way possible.

It is with a very heavy heart that I share the sad news that last night, Auntie Saleha also passed away.

I will never forget the love they showered upon me during every visit. Please keep them in your prayers.

May Allah (s.w.t.) grant them Jannatul-Firdaus, forgive their sins, and make their grave a place of comfort and light. Ameen.

Tragic Floods in Bangladesh: 59 Dead and 1.24 Million Families Displaced

“I Have Lost Everything”: Bangladesh Floods Strand more than 1.24 Million Families!

On August 21, 2024, heavy monsoon rains and a sudden surge of water from the Indian state of Tripura led to catastrophic flooding in southeastern and northeastern Bangladesh. Eleven districts were severely impacted, including Feni, Cumilla, Chattogram, Khagrachari, Noakhali, Moulvibazar, Habiganj, Brahmanbaria, Sylhet, Lakshmipur, and Cox’s Bazar, marking one of the worst flood events in recent history.

The intense rainfall, combined with the upstream water flow, triggered flash floods that devastated low-lying areas, particularly in Moulvibazar, Habiganj, Feni, Cumilla, and Chattogram. The disaster has claimed the lives of 59 people, with causes of death ranging from snake bites to electrocution, and many were swept away by the floodwaters. As the waters begin to recede, countless families have lost their homes and livestock, and are now suffering from a lack of safe drinking water, cooked food, and the spread of waterborne diseases.

Jury for the prestigious KAAF International Photo Contest 2024 in Iran.

Dear friends,

I am thrilled and honored to announce that I am one of the jurors for the prestigious KAAF International Photo Contest 2024 in Iran.

Thank you deeply for your unwavering support and affection. Your encouragement is invaluable to me. Please keep me in your thoughts as I embark on this exciting journey.

Interested participants, please apply soon.

Prize Details:

  • 400 million Rials cash prize
  • 4 brilliant medals
  • 12 Honorable Mentions
  • Exhibition

Deadline: October 6, 2024

For more details about joining this contest, please visit: https://kaafphoto.ir/en

Sending you love and light.

Warm regards,
GMB Akash

juror for the esteemed 2024 Martial Arts Photo Contest in South Korea.

Dear Friends, I am honored to share that I have been selected as a juror for the esteemed 2024 Martial Arts Photo Contest in South Korea, organized by the UNESCO International Centre of Martial Arts (ICM). Your unwavering support and encouragement are invaluable to me, and I am deeply grateful for it. As I embark on this exciting venture, I ask for your continued thoughts and well-wishes. For more details about the contest, please visit: www.unescoicmphoto2024.gongmo.work/index.php.

Love and Light! GMB Akash

A Journey Through Time: Life in Nepal’s Elderly Home!


Here and there, elderly people sit in the courtyard and on the shrine platform, lost in memories of past happiness. Or is this a place where they are left by their families to die? The questions are countless, with no answers except those found within. They endure daily routines in this old home, where the future is no longer a concern. My heart is moved: May God bless and give them solace. – GMB Akash

Entering the Briddhasram at Pashupathinath feels like stepping back in time by at least fifty years, to a world that moves very slowly.

A damp photo of a grandchild beside an elderly woman shows her smiling as she remembers a loved one she hasn’t seen in ten years, yet keeps her image alive in her mind. I must capture their essence to preserve their memories.

Here, grey-haired residents spend hours idly in the courtyard and on the shrine platform. Some watch you curiously as you pass, while others are engaged in simple tasks like praying or dusting off clothes. The sounds are minimal: the clink of a wheeled support or a faintly playing broken radio.

The Social Welfare Centre Briddhasram, Nepal’s only government-run elderly home, has been operating since 1977. It houses up to 240 people suffering from ailments associated with old age, such as paralysis and failing eyesight.

For some, the sight of people at the end of their lives here is disheartening, but for others, it offers a refuge from a fast-paced world. Despite the lack of communication among residents, they live closely together and care deeply for one another, retaining a profound sense of humanity.

Many believe in the moral duty to care for aging parents. I agree; every child should fulfill this obligation, ensuring their parents are not left alone in their final years.

“Through my lens, I listen to their silent voices in solitude and silence, capturing their pain and stories. My camera merges with their suffering, preserving their silent wounds.” – GMB Akash

Life Inside Indonesia’s Mental Hospitals!  

Indonesia, a country with 240 million people, is facing significant challenges in providing mental health care. There are only about 500 psychiatrists in the entire country, leading to a shortage and leaving approximately 750,000 Indonesians with mental health issues without the proper care they need.

Due to cultural beliefs associating mental illness with evil spirits, many people resort to traditional herbal remedies and prayers, which may not always provide effective results in addressing mental health conditions.

For those who do seek medical help, mental health facilities in Indonesia often have harsh conditions, such as chaining, caging, and inadequate resources. This highlights the pressing need for reforms to ensure humane treatment and better facilities for individuals with mental health needs.

NEPAL’S BATTLE AGAINST HIV

In 2010, I embarked on a poignant journey across Nepal to document the profound impact of the HIV/AIDS crisis, particularly in remote areas such as Achham. At Achham District Hospital, Nurse Surja Kunwar highlighted that the migration of men to India was a primary factor driving HIV prevalence, exacerbated by a lack of awareness about safe sex practices and challenges in negotiating safer behaviors within marital relationships. Surja estimates that 5,000 Achham residents are HIV-positive. Approximately 64,000 people are estimated to be living with HIV in Nepal.

Despite Nepal’s low overall HIV prevalence of 0.5%, high-risk groups such as seasonal migrant workers experienced a concentrated epidemic, with labor migrants alone accounting for 41% of all cases by 2008. Kalashi Vishwakarmas, pregnant with her fourth child, was the last to know that her husband of 10 years was HIV-positive. He worked in Mumbai, but she says she did not know what kind of job he had, and she never felt comfortable asking about his sexual activity abroad. In Achham, approximately 1,500 children were affected by HIV/AIDS, many of whom were orphaned.

My mission aimed to raise awareness and catalyze positive change in Nepal’s approach to addressing HIV/AIDS, emphasizing the crucial role of specialized healthcare facilities and rehabilitation centers in providing essential care and support to those in remote and underserved regions like Achham.

My solo exhibition in Finland!

Dear friends,

I’m thrilled to announce my solo exhibition, “My Equal Life,” recently held at Entresse Library in Espoo Center, Finland.

Thank you to everyone who visited and supported the exhibition!

Throughout 2023-2024, “My Equal Life” will be showcased in various cities across Finland. This series aims to raise awareness about global inequality, foster empathy, and share compelling stories through photography.

These exhibitions are supported and organized by The Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs, Finland, and Caritas Finland.

I offer my heartfelt gratitude for your constant love and support.

_GMB Akash

Life on the Edge: The Train Track Slum in Dhaka!

Suddenly the inter-city train appears rushing at them on the tracks with its deadly noise which is the only thing that alerts the people. The scene includes a train that seems to be traveling as if to arrive at the slum but then ruthlessly goes right through it. It watches and touches both sides of the slum’s tin-roofs.

Who could have ignored such g-o-t-a-n-g, g-o-t-a-n-g sound that raises heartbeats of the inhabitants of the Karwan Bazaar train track Slum in Dhaka on a daily basis… at least fifty times a day? Speculated to have sprung up post-Liberation War of 1971, this slum, while not ancient, is home to residents who have lived here for more than thirty years.

Thousands of shanties line the curvy train tracks. Some of the smallest huts with three-foot-high roofs rent for as much as 2000 taka (about $25), while newer, taller ones cost 3000 taka (about $39) per month. The muddy tracks are strewn with waste and rotten vegetables.

Amidst this, women like Marium Begum, 35, prepare lunch on mud clay ovens just a foot from the rails. A passing train could easily snatch the potatoes she fries in her pan. Marium recounts, “My eldest daughter is ten, and I’ve taught her how to save herself when the train rushes by.” Children here are adept at fleeing from oncoming trains, but the terror of simultaneous trains on both tracks is a frequent, heart-stopping event.

Accidents are common, with many children losing legs, hands, fingers in front of their helpless parents. Jaleha Kahtun reflects, “If we had anything in the village, we wouldn’t live here. The river overflowed and took everything. Now, everything we own is in this bazaar.” These residents are climate migrants, displaced by frequent floods. Despite the dangers, their move to the city allows them to feed their families better than they could back in their ravaged villages. Explore the stark realities and resilience of life on the edge in my photo album.

Surviving the Toxic Charcoal Plant!

In Manila’s North Harbour, the Ulingeros family grapples with the harsh reality of working in a hazardous toxic charcoal plant, where they earn meager wages. The Ulingan area is known for its dangerous conditions, with many of its laborers, including children as young as six or seven years old, enduring the risks of the toxic environment. Despite these challenges, families like the Ulingeros persist in this perilous work, driven by the necessity to survive in Manila’s unforgiving urban landscape, where economic hardship forces difficult choices upon its residents.

A Proud Moment: Ilma’s Admission to B.Sc. Nursing

What a happy and proud moment for me. Recently, one of my students, Ilma, achieved the second position in the Jessore division for the B.Sc. in Nursing program. She excelled in a highly competitive exam where 20 thousands of talented students from across Bangladesh competed and fifteen hundreds are selected. Alhamdulillah, she has now completed her admission process and begun her classes this week.

Ilma is a brilliant student. By the grace of God, I have been taking care of all her educational expenses since her childhood. She also achieved a ‘Golden A+’ in her HSC from the science group. If Allah wills, I will continue to support her until she completes her studies.

She dreams of becoming an honest and exemplary nurse and humbly requests your prayers. Please keep her in your thoughts. This opportunity to study nursing will help fulfill not only her dreams but also those of her mother and me.

With Love and Light,

_GMB Akash

A dream house for Nurjahan Khala.

Nurjahan Khala, who has no one, no daughters, no sons, lost her husband almost 30 years ago and has been working in others’ houses since then. Due to her age, she can no longer work and she has no place to stay. One relative of hers provided her with a space in their veranda. But her biggest fear was that due to her age, if she excretion accidentally along wherever she stayed, her relative wouldn’t allow her to stay there anymore. That’s why having her own house was the most important thing to her, but she didn’t have the means or ability to build one.

How would she build a house where she cannot afford to properly manage her three meals a day?Nurjahan Khala came to me after hearing about me from the villagers, and she shared her sorrows with me. Since then, I’ve taken the responsibility for her food and housing.

The good news is, I build a house for Nurjahan Khala to live in, and it took about a month to build the house with a bathroom and a kitchen and almost cost 1500$. I also provide her with the monthly expenses for her food and living, which require a modest amount of money each month.

Many of you expressed deep sorrow after watching Nurjahan Khala’s video in my social medias and were eager for her updates. I’m pleased to inform you that alhamdulillah, she is doing well now and is very happy to have received her new home. She has expressed her heartfelt gratitude to those who have sent her good wishes, prayers, and showed concern and care for her.

My friend, Please keep me in your prayers so that I may continue my journey to change the lives of helpless people in their needs.

Love and light

_GMB Akash

Taposhi achieved a Golden A+ and dreams of becoming a doctor.

Women’s empowerment is very important to me. Every year, I select brilliant students who have positive attitude towards life with hope and ambition for a brighter future. However these bright souls find themselves held back by the heavy burden of SSC examination fees and setbacks due to financial support.

Taposhi is one of those promising students. She got a ‘Golden A+’ in her SSC exam from science group and I can’t express how happy and proud I am for her.

By the grace of God, I have been covering all of her educational expenses every month. This year, she has been admitted to college for her HSC studies in the science section. She wants to become a doctor. Please keep her in your prayers, so that she may continue her studies and her aspirations to become a doctor and fulfill her dreams…

Love and Light

_GMB Akash

Restoring Dignity: A Toilet for Every Home.

It is easy to take a restroom or toilet for granted. But everyone is not fortunate enough to build one. The best thing about a toilet is that it helps people have dignity, better health, safety and so much more.

I am donating ‘Restroom/Toilets’ to old unfortunate elderly couples, fathers and widowed mothers (with young daughters) who are neglected by their children and who do not have the ability to make one for themselves and because of this basic need they are suffering in various ways.

Mother of Brishty said, “My daughter has to wait until it gets dark to go to the toilet, because our toilet is broken and everything is visible from outside, so we can only use the toilet in the dark to protect our dignity.”

“Now after getting the new toilet, we can go and use the toilet whenever we want.”

To give them a dignified and healthy life, I have already started building toilets for such helpless families.

I have built 6 new toilets this month for 6 families, with these six, we have built a total of 26 toilets. And it’s an ongoing project, every month I am building hygienic toilets in different remote villages for unprivileged people who are in need.

My dream is to build toilets for every needy person, who are suffering for this basic human right.

Love and Light

_GMB Akash

20 solo exhibitions in the last two years, from 2022 to 2023, in Finland.

Dear friends,

I am happy to share that my current solo exhibition has been on display at Rantasalmi Library for the last two weeks.The final full day of the exhibition is December 27, 2023.

My 10 solo exhibition of “My Equal Life,” took place in various cities across Finland throughout the year 2023. The exhibition was supported and organized by The Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs, Finland, and Caritas Finland, and its aim was to raise awareness about global inequality, arouse compassion, and share the experiences of people through my photographs and related stories.

I will be happy to share some moments from my exhibition with you all ❤️

The pictures and stories are also on display on the exhibition’s website, and it is touring seven cities in Finland: Turku, Kouvola, Vaasa, Helsinki, Kuopio, Oulu, and Jyväskylä.

Thank you for your support and interest in “My Equal Life.”

Revolution in Pink!

The Gulabi Gang in India, or the “Pink Gang,” founded by Sampat Pal Devi in 2006, is a powerful social movement of rural women in Uttar Pradesh. They wear pink saris symbolizing solidarity, actively combating injustices, practicing self-defense, and challenging gender norms, gaining national and international recognition. Despite facing opposition, the Pink Gang inspires change, emphasizing the ongoing need to address gender inequality and injustice in society.

Providing Lifelong Support for an Elderly Couple in Need.

Dear friends,

You may all remember Abdul Mojid Chacha and Chan Bahar Khala, a loving couple.

Uncle Mojid, who was a hardworking and honest person, can’t work like before due to age. However, he does not want to see his wife in poverty, so he chooses to beg in different cities, hiding his struggles from his wife, who would otherwise feel distressed for her husband.

A love story that touched all your hearts. A love story that shows the depth of care between a husband and wife, proving that wealth and abundance are not the reasons for their love.

As this old couple do not have anyone to support 2 months ago, I took all their responsibilities -like, food, medicine and everything they need for the rest of their life.

I visit them every month and buy all the necessary items myself, including food, grocery and clothes.⁣

Helping a helpless person is really a great blessing and my friends; I can’t thank you and pray for you enough for everything you all do for me. Please know that those who are constantly supporting and inspiring these good deeds, the prayers of me and these helpless people must reach your doorsteps.

Please keep them in your prayers.⁣

Sending my love and prayers to all of you.⁣

Love and Light ⁣

_GMB Akash

Dignity on Wheels: Providing Wheelchairs and Dignity to Disabled Children in Bangladesh.

There are several million disabled children in Bangladesh in need of wheelchairs. Many have been immobilized for decades. Their condition not only has a devastating impact on their lives but also the lives of their families.

Priyanka was one of them. When I saw her first time she was laying and drenched in her own urine, amidst the harsh winter on a wet floor of their veranda, with flies and ants crawling over her face.

Her mother cannot afford a wheelchair as she works as a house maid in people’s houses. Her mother told me; “If we could have bought a wheelchair, my daughter would have been in a lot less pain. I could put my daughter in the wheelchair, so no insects would sit on her, then I would be able to clean my daughter very easily. My daughter didn’t have to suffer as she is suffering now.”

To give them a dignified, happy, and healthy life, in last 1 year I have gifted 30 wheelchairs to 30 children whenever I encounter someone in need.

If this initiative brings even a little comfort to their daily lives, then all my efforts will be truly worthwhile.

Thanks to all of you who consistently step forward to help these children and support me through your love and prayers.

_GMB Akash

For the past 15 years, I have dedicated myself to working with street children in Bangladesh.

Dear friends,

I am sharing a glimpse of my work with street children in this video. For the past 15 years, I have dedicated myself to working with street children in Bangladesh, striving to make a difference in their lives.

My efforts extend beyond providing the basics. I take them for haircuts, offer showers in public bathrooms, and every week, I bring 100-200 children to a good restaurant for a nourishing meal. Additionally, I provide sandals, new dresses, and winter clothing during the colder months on a regular basis.

Together, let’s believe in the power of small gestures. Our collective efforts can bring light into the dark places of the world. Thank you for your unwavering support.

With gratitude, GMB Akash

Sharing food: A Heartfelt Beef Khichuri Gathering for the rural locale.

Sharing food: A Heartfelt Beef Khichuri Gathering for the rural locale. ❤️As you all know that, I try to feed street children and poor elderly people with nutritious food regularly. Similarly, recently, I had the privilege of organizing a heartwarming khichuri beef and vegetable (hotchpotch) fest in a rural village where 90% of the population is underprivileged. We managed to serve this nourishing meal to around 200+ people, ensuring they not only enjoyed it themselves but also took some home for their families. Here, I’d like to share a glimpse of this beautiful event, where the spirit of giving shone brightly…_GMB Akash

Gifted 100 Bicycles, Countless Dreams Saved: Empowering Underprivileged Students for a Brighter Future.

Dear friends,

By the grace of God, last week I was able to distribute 10 more bicycles among 10 underprivileged students.

Alhamdullilah, with these 10, a total of 100 bicycle distributions has been completed till now.

They had to walk 10-12 kilometers far from their villages. These students often face significant challenges without access to a bicycle. They have to walk long distances, which not only makes them tired but also consumes a significant amount of time. This leads to fatigue and reduced energy for studying.

Furthermore, walking exposes them to safety risks, as they may have to traverse potentially unsafe routes. In addition to safety concerns, adverse weather conditions, such as heavy rain or extreme heat, can further impede their ability to attend school regularly. Limited access to schooling reduces their future prospects and may push girls towards early marriages.

Indeed, a bicycle can be a lifeline, helping them overcome all the challenges and they can pursue their education without any hindrance.

I will continue to gift bicycles to those in need, Inshallah.

Thank you all my friends for your kind support and humanity! Without all your love and support I probably couldn’t go this far every day.

Love and light

_GMB Akash