Farmer's gift elates Khaleda Zia but returns bull for his Eid celebration
She asked that the meat be shared with local BNP leaders, activists, and the poor-ensuring that the act of devotion also served the people
BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia has expressed heartfelt gratitude to Sohag Mridha, a devoted party activist from Uttar Jhatibunia village in Patuakhali's Mirzaganj upazila, who brought his beloved bull 'Kalo Manik' to Dhaka as a sacrificial offering for her this Eid-ul-Adha.
Khaleda Zia was deeply touched by the gesture, but in a moving show of humility and consideration, she requested Sohag to return to his village and perform the Qurbani (sacrifice) in his community instead.
She asked that the meat be shared with local BNP leaders, activists, and the poor-ensuring that the act of devotion also served the people.
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The story of 'Kalo Manik'-a striking, jet-black bull weighing about 1,400 kg, measuring 10 feet in length and 5 feet 4 inches in height-has already captured the imagination of locals.
The animal, once valued at over Taka 10 lakh, was never put up for sale by Sohag.
Sohag's journey to Dhaka was no small feat. Determined to fulfill his dream, he traveled with Kalo Manik on three hired mini trucks, accompanied by fellow supporters, music, banners, and matching T-shirts.
Speaking emotionally before leaving his village, Sohag said, "Today I'm fulfilling a long-cherished dream by gifting this bull to Khaleda Zia. Please pray for me."
Khaleda Zia and BNP's Acting Chairman, her son Tarique Rahman, expressed sincere appreciation for the symbolic offering.
In recognition of Sohag's loyalty, the BNP chairperson also sent a special Eid gift to his family.
Sohag raised Kalo Manik from birth after buying a Friesian cow for Tk137,000 in 2018. The cow soon gave birth to the calf that would grow into Kalo Manik. With the help of his family and a small farm operation, Sohag lovingly raised the bull over six years, feeding it rice husk, bran, green grass, and hay.
Local BNP leaders confirmed Sohag's longstanding commitment to the party. Amragachhia Union BNP President Md Rafiqul Islam described him as a "dedicated activist who raised the bull with family support and heartfelt devotion."
Sohag's mother, Hajera Begum, shared her pride: "My husband is no longer with us, but Sohag has carried on with strength. We are happy to see his wish fulfilled."
"Kalo Manik and our younger son are the same age. I raised both with the same love. It was my husband's dream that this bull be gifted to Khaleda Zia, and we are proud to see that happen," added Sohag's wife Sultana Akhter Poli.
