### Qurbani Project 2011 – Documentary for Islamic Relief Bangladesh
Machizo produced a documentary highlighting the Qurbani Programme 2011 of Islamic Relief Bangladesh, capturing the spirit of sacrifice, compassion and generosity that lies at the heart of Eid-ul-Adha.
**The Spirit of Qurbani**
Qurbani is an important Islamic tradition observed during Eid-ul-Adha, commemorating the extraordinary faith, humility and devotion demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his beloved son, Prophet Ismail (AS). According to Islamic tradition, Prophet Ibrahim (AS) received a divine command in a dream to sacrifice his cherished son. Without hesitation, both father and son placed their complete trust in Allah and submitted to His will. At the moment of sacrifice, Allah replaced Ismail (AS) with a ram, acknowledging their unwavering faith and devotion.
In remembrance of this profound act of obedience and sacrifice, Muslims around the world celebrate Eid-ul-Adha each year by sacrificing an animal, traditionally a sheep, goat or cow. A significant portion of the meat is shared with those living in poverty, reflecting the festival’s enduring values of compassion, generosity and solidarity.
**Reaching Vulnerable Communities**
In 2011, Islamic Relief Bangladesh implemented its Qurbani Programme in communities where poverty and food insecurity had been exacerbated by rising food prices, increased fuel costs and recurring natural disasters, including flash floods, cyclones, waterlogging and river erosion.
For many disadvantaged families, putting food on the table was already a daily struggle. Purchasing meat for Eid-ul-Adha was simply beyond their means, leaving many unable to participate fully in the celebrations.
Through this programme, Islamic Relief Bangladesh reached out to some of the country’s most vulnerable people, including widows, orphans, older people, persons with disabilities and impoverished families affected by natural disasters.
The beneficiary selection process was carried out through a participatory approach, involving partner NGOs, local volunteers, Project Implementation Committee members, Union Parishad representatives and community leaders. Initial beneficiary lists were prepared following consultations at the local level and subsequently verified by Islamic Relief representatives and partner organisations to ensure that assistance reached those most in need.
**Sharing the Blessings of Eid**
As one of its annual seasonal initiatives, the Qurbani Programme enables Islamic Relief to share the blessings of Eid-ul-Adha with families who would otherwise go without Qurbani meat.
With generous contributions from donors and partners around the world, the 2011 programme distributed fresh, good-quality Qurbani meat to disadvantaged communities across Bangladesh.
A total of **29,280 families across 31 districts**, benefiting approximately **146,400 people**, received Qurbani meat. Each family received a packet containing an average of 2 kg of beef. Distribution was organised through local NGOs, community-based organisations and Islamic Relief’s own field teams, depending on the organisation’s presence in each area.
The districts were selected according to the severity of poverty and vulnerability to natural disasters. Beneficiary selection was conducted through community consultations and group meetings, ensuring active local participation throughout the process.
**A Landmark Distribution Event in Tangail**
In partnership with the Rural Economic Development Programme (REDP), Karmayon and Pariber O Shishu Kallayan Kendra (POSKK), Islamic Relief Bangladesh organised a major distribution programme in the Dhonbari sub-district of Tangail.
On 8 November 2011, a total of **3,000 Qurbani meat packets** were distributed among disadvantaged families in the area. The event was inaugurated by the Honourable Dr Muhammad Abdur Razzaque, Member of Parliament and Minister for Food and Disaster Management, Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, who attended as the Chief Guest.
**Bringing Joy Through Compassion**
Food insecurity and malnutrition remain among the most pressing challenges facing impoverished communities in Bangladesh. Many families are forced to survive on inadequate meals, leaving them particularly vulnerable to malnutrition and poor health.
Supported by the generosity of international donors, the Qurbani Programme 2011 brought not only much-needed food but also happiness and a sense of inclusion to thousands of disadvantaged families. By providing fresh meat during Eid-ul-Adha, the initiative helped families enjoy the festival with dignity while complementing Islamic Relief Bangladesh’s wider development and humanitarian programmes.
Through this documentary, Machizo captures the human stories behind the initiative, highlighting how the spirit of sacrifice can translate into meaningful acts of kindness, compassion and hope.