An inspiring fusion of women’s creativity, entrepreneurship, and Bangladesh’s rich cultural and tourism heritage came alive at the “Mehendi Fest 2025” held at Sea Palace Hotel in Cox’s Bazar.
The colorful event featured 14 women-led stalls showcasing live mehendi designs, henna-based products, traditional music and performances, as well as a photo corner and networking sessions for tourists and entrepreneurs.
The event was implemented by Sea Palace Hotel with technical support from the ILO–ISEC Project Partnership Initiative, Enroute International Limited, and the International Labour Organization (ILO).
The festival was inaugurated on Saturday morning by Nilufar Yasmin Chowdhury, Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) of Cox’s Bazar Sadar, as the chief guest.
“Mehendi is a significant symbol of Bangladesh’s heritage. Since Cox’s Bazar is one of the country’s prime tourist destinations, this festival offers visitors a unique cultural experience while empowering women entrepreneurs,” she said.
Speaking as the special guest, Jahanara Islam, President of the Cox’s Bazar Women Chamber of Commerce and Industries, remarked, “This initiative serves as an inspiration for women entrepreneurs. I sincerely thank all participants, Enroute International Limited, ILO, and the Sea Palace Hotel management for making this event a success. Such initiatives not only strengthen women’s economic empowerment but also enrich the cultural tourism of Cox’s Bazar.”
Intisar, general manager of Sea Palace Hotel, said, “We are proud to host a festival that celebrates women’s participation in a city known for its tourism.
Through the Mehendi Fest, tourists had the opportunity to connect closely with local culture. We plan to continue such initiatives to ensure Cox’s Bazar shines not only for its natural beauty but also for its cultural vibrancy.”
Md. Ibrahim Khalil Bhuiyan, Team Leader of Enroute International Limited, added, “Through Mehendi Fest, local women entrepreneurs have not only displayed their creativity but also established their capabilities with confidence.”
This event has opened a new chapter in the development of cultural tourism in Cox’s Bazar, he added.
“In the future, we hope these entrepreneurs will independently collaborate with hotels and resorts to organize similar festivals and expand their businesses further,” he also said.
By Abdu Rashid Manik
Photo: Abdu Rashid Manik
