Due to their work, an American couple has been living in Cox’s Bazar for over five years, and they stole the show at a half-marathon on Marine Drive Road. What truly captivated everyone was their ability to speak fluently in the Cox’s Bazar regional dialect.
Janelle Zeal, the wife, expressed her joy saying “Aara jamai-buye en sundor rastat hara hara duijji. Chair number paayi fuwati. Atto bishi gom laijje ede duriyare.”
(“We, husband and wife, sprinted on this beautiful road. We finished fourth together. I enjoyed running here.”)
Her husband, Samo Zeal, also said, “Hassabazart haj gori 5 bochor. Aara duijonai e bhasagan shikhi ediyar manush o Rohingya alarlai hata haibar laai.”
(“We’ve been living in Cox’s Bazar for five years. Both of us learned this language to better connect with the local community and Rohingya people.”)
The couple works with an international organization and participated in the marathon together, finishing side by side.
The couple’s fluency and camaraderie have garnered significant attention after local news outlets broadcast their story.
By Abdur Rashid Manik
Photo: Collected
