Daak Chithi: Unsent Letters

By Rameen Bajwa

The digitization of our world promises us closeness; instant replies, lightning-fast updates, endless access. Yet this facade of connectivity further deepens this void forcing us to feel further apart than ever. There was a time when communication asked more of us. Where even the simple act of putting the right words to paper demanded intention. Ask yourself, when was the last time you wrote something with intention? Human expression is so abundantly available around us. It is found in the pauses that make up a conversation and in the bounds of poetry. Somewhere at this interaction, Daak Chithi began to take shape because at the heart of this intention is where we find ourselves most human.

Our founder, Murshidul Alam Bhuiyan, traces this idea back to his mother’s almirah stacked with letters. There were dozens of them, some neatly folded in between enveloped fabric, others worn at the edges. The letters were addressed to siblings, friends, people who had once been a part of her life. Every now and then, she would take them out. Never all of them at once. She’d read them out loud, each time sharing a new story. And then, just as gently, she would fold them back and return them to their place. Some of the letters had softened at the folds. A few of them had faint stains. In a few places, the ink looked darker creating a frequency of pauses. From confessions to simpler truths, the letters became the heart of Daak Chithi. It was clear from this moment we wanted to use storytelling as the medium for our framework because it was something that happened to all of us.

In Bangladesh, Daak Chithi started with Murshidul Alam Bhuiyan, Jannatul Maida, Sharafa Tonmona, Faria Alam, Saima Ali Fariha, and Tasfia Rahman Piyal, supported in its early stages by the YCM Seed Fund, which they won through the YCM Challenge 2025. What began with postcard-style designs expanded into letter-writing corners at events; quiet pockets in loud spaces where strangers could sit, write, remember, and feel again. Starting online with theme-based letters, the initiative moved into letter-writing events at universities in Dhaka and later into workshops held in institutions across Bangladesh, including orphanages and madrasas in Cox’s Bazar. Now, through this platform, people are connecting and reconnecting. Friends who've moved abroad confess their fears and wishes, a mother sharing unsaid love and affection for her son and spouses reconnecting, or a grandchild talking to their grandad as if he were still with her; Daak Chithi has become the haven of love and silent bearer of unsaid stories.

From partition stories to shared grief our history with Bangladesh is rooted in erasure. Yet poetry has a way of crossing borders that still binds us. And that is how the undercurrents of Daak Chithi unearthed in Pakistan. My introduction to this craft goes back to my grandfather. He was remembered as a quiet man. Yet no one could match the sheer volume of his sentiments when it came to poetry. I grew up watching that unfold without fully understanding it at the time. When you witness someone step into their poethood you realize how simple this happening is. And with that, you start to see it in everyone around you.

As Country Director, building my team was never just about filling roles. I wanted to expand Daak Chithi through the lens of poetry across Pakistan. Mahnoor and I performed together at my first open mic. Emaan was my first audience and with that my first proof of poetry too. Namra introduced me to the parallels of poetry and politics. Abdullah’s recitals were almost lyrical. In many ways the same force that brought Daak Chithi into being, invited these curators together. Multiple letter-writing fairs and story-focused gatherings have since been organised in the heart of the city, unearthing a newfound sense of community through the archaic act of letter writing.

At the first few gatherings, there was hesitation. People would ask, “What do I even write?” But slowly through initiatives such as Daak Baithak, Daak Umeed, Daak Station, and Daak Dastan, Daak Chithi we have created a spectrum of events to create room for these moments. From close-knit communal sessions to large-scale workshops, youth workshops and type-writer pop-ups, our purpose remains the same: to make space for people to pause, reflect and vent.

The reception of Daak Chithi in Islamabad has been immediate and efficacious. Students have found solace in handwritten notes. Strangers have exchanged gratitude and quiet encouragement. Friends who had drifted apart reconnected. Husbands and wives found new ways to express care. Mothers and sons bridged silences that conversations had long avoided. Each letter became a small but powerful thread, weaving a connection where it had long been missing. Children brought their parents back to their childhood. Friends reminisced about those who had left, shed a tear, and a sprinting life came to a standstill for a moment. In Islamabad, Daak Chithi slowed the ever-running city; it disrupted the plans of tomorrow for the moment of today.

As I write this I am sitting next to archives of Daak Chithi’s impact. One of the first stories that allowed me to visualise the impact of our mission was from our first event - this man, wrote to someone from the same workshop. Although she didn’t know it at first but as they both continued to write, something unspoken between them became visible. In a workshop with midwives, one of them wrote an ode to grief and crossing the line between life and loss while continuing to show up for both. Daak Baithak carried a similar weight. A woman in her late fifties wrote to a friend who passed away years ago, tracing two decades worth of friendship in a letter she never got to send. Someone else wrote to their former partner to release and acknowledge how much had changed. Each time the pattern was the same, when granted the space to unwind, people don’t just write but form community. Witnessing such profound vulnerability from strangers integrated me even more into this drive.

Beyond letter-writing, Daak Chithi’s work extends into social care. The organisation has raised funds to provide period relief kits for women and girls in flood-affected areas, while proceeds from events support their TNVR campaign dedicated to caring for and protecting stray dogs in Islamabad. Different causes, the same instinct, to notice vulnerability and respond with kindness.

Inspired by tegami, the Japanese tradition of slow, intentional letter-writing, Daak Chithi is not just a platform. With its 17 core members and over 100 members, it is resistance; a refusal to let speed replace sincerity. It offers more than paper and ink. It offers permission. To pause. To feel deeply. To speak honestly. Because sometimes, the slowest messages are the ones that live the longest.

A Star Beyond the Horizon: A peek through Murshidul Alam Bhuiyan’s Heart and Mind

Artwork by Md. Jarif Alam

By Surayia Rahman

Amidst a world sometimes consumed by self-interest, there emerges a rare kind – individuals like Murshidul Alam Bhuiyan. Through Team Bertho, he doesn't merely gather stories; he delicately weaves them into a heartfelt tapestry of human connection that spans the globe—a living testament to compassion in its purest form.

From his early school days to the zenith of his humanitarian mission, Murshidul's journey stands as a testament to the potent force of empathy. As Murshidul collects stories from all over the world, we make an attempt to uncover his, by having an exchange of words with the individuals whom he holds very close to his heart.

Helal Sir and Mojumder Sir, all-time guidance: Helal Sir, Murshidul's scout teacher, recalls his inquisitive nature since childhood and his passion to help people. A dedicated scout enthusiast, Murshidul effortlessly balanced academics and scouting, emerging victorious in his personal battles. Seeking life guidance from Helal Sir post-SSC, he embraced this simple principle, "Be a good human being." Their bond remains strong, with Murshidul's updates and nostalgic gestures like sharing his lunch in childhood. Helal Sir aspires to witness Murshidul's tenacity in all his students. 

Similarly, Mojumder Sir, who's known Murshidul since primary school, echoes these sentiments, expressing pride in his international recognition. Seeking Mojumder Sir's counsel for various projects, Murshidul's journey continues to shape.

Ludmila, non-blood twins: From unlikely beginnings to now playfully dubbing each other 'twins', Ludmila and Murshidul's connection was sparked by a shared set of probing questions. Their nearly identical viewpoints led to a strong rapport, fueled by relatable thoughts. Ludmila specially appreciates the aura Murshidul brings to the room with his genuine smile and his ability to make people smile. Murshidul's philosophical nature and the special term 'Partho' bind them further. Amidst their bond, “Murshidul's penchant for cracking and defending cheesy jokes is a constant source of amusement”, Ludmila points out as Murshidul quotes, “Nobody knows me better than her.”

Ludmila and Murshid

Faiaz, determined souls: Friends since grade 1, their journey intertwined with Team Bertho. Their shared perspectives fuelled Team Bertho's evolution from humour to profound stories. Murshidul's quiet but friendly nature in class caught Faiaz's attention. Despite differences, he connected with everyone. Faiaz noticed that Murshidul excels in professional conversations, but casual chats make him hesitant. He recalls their memories such as how they persevered through a video shooting in a scorching Ramadan, or their collaborative photo series on Valentine's Day, which showcased Murshidul's determination and ability to lead under pressure. As founders drifted due to work-life balance, Murshidul expanded the joint projects, updating the circle from time to time. "Even now, he beckons us to leap into spontaneous projects and ideas," Faiaz fondly emphasizes. Faiaz often playfully nudges him as everything but romantic. A champion of humanity, he balances fun with a serious demeanour for Team Bertho.

Elsa, soulful connections: UK's Evergreen Elsa finds Murshidul incredibly caring and thoughtful, a rare trait in his extent of attention to detail. He is down-to-earth, approachable, and ensures regular catch-ups. Their conversations make Elsa perceives the notion as if he's addressing the entire world. Whenever they chat, Elsa feels that Murshidul is this ‘whimsical viewfinder’ of viewing seeing the shebang from a completely different angle. While their souls dance in integrity, they interestingly bond over their shared interest in dancing.

Risad, soulful kinship: Both of their parents being school in-charges, Risad and Murshidul's friendship traces back to their grade 1 classroom where they found their own corner, where their companionship took away the bustling distractions of the world around them. Helal Sir's endearing fondness, playfully evoking the term 'Bertho,' despite its English translation as 'Failure,' left an indelible mark on them. This is how the name Team Bertho came to be. Aside that, they sparked shared enthusiasm, which later aspired the duo to become the human beings they are today. The experience of engaging with larger groups through scouting facilitated a transformative shift, ultimately dissolving that barrier of blending into casual conversations, Risad recalls. Despite their contrasting tastes in movies and music—thrillers and metals for Risad, soft films and poetry for Murshidul, their matched perspectives about life couldn’t overshadow that. Despite life's busyness, Murshidul's contagious enthusiasm prevails, along with his commitment to Team Bertho. Their friendship reverberates with laughter and long discussions about Murshidul’s human-life centric projects. Risad's words, 'Caring and unique, Murshidul's creativity stands unmatched.' He concluded on a note remembering a talent of his friend, “… but as life unfolded, Murshidul's gifted, melodic voice of singing found itself on a temporary pause.”

From left to right: Risad, Murshidul, and Faiaz

Prang, nurturing souls together: Initiated by a speaking invitation (2020) that showcased Murshidul's compelling persuasion, Prang from Thailand found herself stepping out of her comfort zone as Murshidul encouraged her. United by a fervour for humanitarian efforts, they share a common dedication to social change. Prang admits that she sees him as a ‘source of tenacity’. On one quiet evening, Murshidul showed a treasured notebook to Prang where he wrote down his own depictions on the people he has made acquaintances with. Seeing something so unique, Prang commented that he’s a passionate people-whisperer with the power to dive into people's minds, make instant connections, and spot details that others might miss. It's like he's got his own personalized pair of ‘people goggles’. She also recognizes an ‘easy-going yet impactful individual’ and a ‘master observer’ who invests energy to elevate lives and comprehends the intricate human mind in Murshidul.

Sazid, bonds beyond measure: The genesis of their friendship blossomed after high school, initiated by a short film discussion, their fellowship grew. Sazid's perception of Murshidul as straightforward and friendly forged a spark that ranges from movies, music, and warm camaraderie along with matched mindsets to backing each other amidst heated debates. Murshidul's affable nature and conversational skills, born of contemplation, seamlessly interlace with his ability to connect with others. "Murshidul is a person who thinks a lot", Sazid comments. He thinks that another thing that deepened the friendship is the common fascination for studying individuals and delving into their thoughts and minds. A plethora of inside riddles, (‘Babumoshai’ being a special one)—brings meaning to their friendship. Well, if you haven't figured it out yet, one of Murshidul's love languages is basically all about dishing out those quirky nicknames! A shared delight in analysing movie characters remains a testament to the delightful synergy between Murshidul and Sazid.

Yasmeen, unbounded echoes: In their distinct pursuits- Yasmeen with her community workshops and Murshidul in Project Management - their worlds intertwined two years ago. Different corners of the world, time zones or cultures couldn’t impede their tie. Their first online conversation sparked a destined connection, touching on philosophy, poetry, and music. She focused more on what they had in common, radiating power of thoughts- which nurtured their fellowship. She also points out that a huge chunk of their friendship is all about having a blast discussing all sorts of books. Still now, whenever she feels low, he somehow feels it, “That’s what friends are for, they should ‘know’.” He possesses the uncanny ability like a ‘sage’ to evoke emotions in people which describes his identifiable trait: altruism.

“If I had to choose one word for him, it’d be ‘kind’. I believe that everyone can be nice but not everyone can be kind. It’s something deep-rooted in the heart, and Murshidul just unearths these feelings in the earth. I hope his mark in the world is seen,” Yasmeen adds.

Yasmeen concludes, suggesting an idea: Murshidul should pen a poem about himself, as a way to delve deeper, showcasing his story to the world.

Faria, a friend of all seasons: Murshidul and Faria's paths converged in high-school, setting the stage for a friendship that would span seven years. However, it was within the corridors of Team Bertho, that their connection thrived. Faria, an adept scriptwriter, breathed life into the stories they gathered, and their discussions flowed like a melody. “Murshidul creates an atmosphere of ease that draws people into his orbit”, as Faria states. The camaraderie birthed a psychological connection that kept resonating. Murshidul's talent for spinning tales transformed ‘mundane instances into enthralments’, a skill that added layers to their bond. Faria shared that Murshidul's warmth offered solace to personal troubles. Yet, she noted his hesitance to share his own challenges. Him playfully christening Faria with playful names is something that Faria can never get tired of, alongside the wholesome stories they were a part of, and the memories they are still creating together. Through ups and downs, Murshidul and Faria showcased the resilience of true companionship.

Shejuti, moonlit connection: A fun word being spoken whenever they see each other, originating from a moon-shaped photography pose, tells us about the close friendship that Murshidul and Shejuti shares. He forms strong connections, intrigued by Shejuti's content. Their deep conversations span psychoanalysis, life lessons, and people's behaviors- and these deep conversations somehow creates a work/life balance while at the same time gives Shejuti the chance to observe how true of a person Murshidul is. Their recent shared amalgamation of storytelling via poetry and music in their university only proved that they are bonded creatively as much as they are bonded together mentally. Their shared laughter on the most random things will always be a memory to be cherished by her. Murshidul's ambition impresses Shejuti, and his thoughtful book gifts endear him to her. ‘He is different in a way that is unexplainable in the language of today’s world”- Shejuti concludes.

Shejuti and Murshidul

Jawad, the unlikely comradeship: Initially taken aback by Murshidul's casual attire and early bedtime during university's residential semester, Jawad's scepticism evolved into an unexpected friendship as Murshidul became his second companion, replacing busy friends. Despite differing interests – with Jawad favouring video games and Murshidul leaning towards poetry – an implicit trust enabled them to share their personal lives openly. Murshidul’s brainchild would open up diverse viewpoints of viewing life. Their hour-long conversations still surprise Jawad, he says that Murshidul has a ‘boundless capacity for discussion’. Jawad could practically set his watch by the endless stream of the life stories he knew would come from him, but hey, that's just evidence of their uncanny mutual understanding! Murshidul's boldness was highlighted through daring, fun challenges thrown by Jawad. While their preferences diverged, their friendship remained rooted in a sense of understanding that transcended such disparities and defied preconceptions. 

Adiba, alliance of insights: 

‘He’s more human than most people’ – Adiba’s testament.

Acquainted with Murshidul for 3 years during the pandemic, joined as an editor for the book "Fueling Hope." Their connection sprouted, eventually leading to a collaborative role as colleagues on a project that radiated both of their love for Spreading good vibes through community magic. Adiba noted their profound discussions, turning the ordinary into the extraordinary. Murshidul's penchant for tossing in random quotes and analogies into conversations along with mind-bending arcs added a unique dimension. She concluded by noting out how she got totally caught onto Murshidul's emoji game – he's like the ‘virtual gardener’, planting sunflowers and leaves at the end of his messages to sprinkle some of that real-life sunshine into the digital world.

Nadiya, benevolent bonds: Knowing each other for about 1.5 years through a charity program, Nadiya and Murshidul discovered shared interests and perspectives on life. Murshidul's unique ability to connect with people drew Nadiya's attention, leading to a friendship built on mutual care. Thoughtful gestures, like Murshidul's small gifts and letters, are something that endears him most to her. On that note, Nadiya recalls Murshidul’s seriously impressive memory game – he'll pick up on things that they might have talked about ages ago, even if she’s totally forgotten about them herself. Murshidul likes to surprise people with unexpected treats if he remembers them talking about them liking something in passing, “That’s just how he cares,” Nadiya says on an ending note.

Murshidul in one word: Narrowing down Murshidul to a single word? Quite the challenge! Through these amazing souls’ lens, Murshidul emerges as an intelligent, multidisciplinary, and dedicated Mr. Bhuiyan, exuding optimism, occasional endearing annoyance, steadfastness, and a passionate, kind humanity. 

Whispers of hearts: I asked the lovely interviewees to deliver some anonymous messages for Murshidul, which will keep him going. One plea, "Control your emotions, save your energy from needless hurt.", and a close friend's three sacred words, "I love you," encapsulate the depth of their bond. Another earnestly implores him to “remain unchanged”, to remain his goofy, thriving self, an innocence that brightens lives. Gratitude blossoms in a message that acknowledges, "You unearthed my hidden uniqueness." Yet, a common aspirating thread weaves through each sentiment—may dreams be realized, and dedication rewarded in Murshidul's journey, where he believes, “Our stories maybe different, but our destination is the same.”

In a world where minutes dictate pace, Murshidul’s saga stands as the cosmic conductor, orchestrating stories of genuine resonance—the stories of people, the heartbeat of lives within. He remains the storyteller, turning human narratives into a realm of authenticity, one genuine connection at a time.

But here's the twist: this isn't just a job; it's his personal odyssey. He's like on this quest to stitch connections, nurture them, and compose narratives that strike chords. Gathering life's tales, he scatters them with a fervor transcending timekeeping; it's a rhythm of connections. Beyond office walls, Murshidul's craft isn't a mere accessory; it's a living artistry that builds and scatters stories from humanity's intricate fabric. Even when work hours fade, he cradles passion close, where stories aren't just words; they're the essence of existence, waiting to be shared. To recapitulate, Murshidul’s role as a human being extends beyond collecting tales; it's a curation of connections—an unspoken pledge to humanity. 

 

An Escape Through Love

By Labiba Rifah Nanjeeba

Love, hate, desire, and fear are powerful emotions that shape a person's life, determining whether they will always be lost on their way to peace or whether peace will come to their home as a guest. It's not possible for one either to harvest them naturally or to let go of them easily. As a result, emotions, like the tangled wires on Dhaka's streets, are complicated, and the more you try to solve them, the more they confuse you. One way to deal with complicated emotions is to ignore the thoughts that consume you or to let them flow and take control of you.

During the quarantine, I succumbed to the overly complicated emotions, all of them hit me like a bullet and took my peace. Sitting at home, watching anime, playing video games, and reading manga could not help me. The undying plague that kept us bonded to the four walls of the house, causing thousands of deaths, was something that took control of my mental health. At that ominous moment, I encountered my best friend, who kept me sane in the midst of the chaos of my own.

On a long day in the summer, when the clock was ticking, I could hardly breathe and was sweating from the heat of the ever-charming Sun piercing through the window of my bedroom, but that didn’t bother me at all. My mind was preoccupied with all kinds of thoughts, especially the ones with dreadful images of a four-legged monster.

My sister was about to bring home the one being I fear most, an animal with four legs, sharp nails, the one human call cat but sister named him “Yuki,” Japanese name meaning snow as he had furs as white as snow. However, the thought of a cat craved nothing but horror in my mind, and for days, I kept my distance, watching him walk and play with others. Sometimes he tried coming to me with the most doe eyes and appealed with his soft "meaow" to play with him, but all I could do was to ignore him.

Despite the fact that I dreaded cats, I slowly began to form a beautiful bond with him but still kept my distance. But one incident that change my entire psyche was one of when I was going through my depression phase, locked the door and cried for nights. I could do nothing but stare at the dark laptop screen with a blank mind; it was then as if Yuki came to rescue me from the constant panic, trauma, and insecurities. I don’t think without him, I would have ever escaped from the dark abyss of panic, trauma, and depression. With the power of his tiny paws, he taught me that love was unconditional and it may come from the most unexpected places, even from the one place where you are afraid to roam.

My tiny friend made me realize what unconditional love is, no matter how complicated my emotions are, just being there for me was enough to smooth my eyes and my heart. In our large world, there are some small moments that make the whole world seem meaningful, and those precious moments are the ones that drive us further in our lives. To find those moments of peace, one just needs to keep their heart open, to welcome all complex emotions; that’s what will perhaps lead you one day to the one moment, which you will cherish for life.

Down to the Abbey

 

Illustration by Nishat Nabilah

By Katelyn Chin (Malaysia) 

“Down to the Abbey,” what I mean is Downton Abbey—a popular British fiction historical drama series that ran from 2010 till 2015. I am outdated for TV shows now and then, unless I see it is interesting and sparks my curiosity; then I will take a keen interest into wanting the story more. 

I wanted to watch Downton Abbey for a long time. I did not watch it when the first series was aired because some contents and scenes were considered violent for a 13-year-old. I was starting my secondary school life and my studies were put primarily. Luckily, I had some other TV shows that most teenagers would watch such as Nickelodeon’s iCarly, True Jackon VP, Big Time Rush, Victorious. 

Until in 2015, I was on a trip to Australia for my regular physiotherapy treatment check-up, I read the news that Downton Abbey is running for its sixth and final season. I saw news of Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Cambridge came to visit to the set of the show. It was clearly a royalty favourite. When I got back home to Malaysia, the show was no longer aired, and I had to wait for quite some time. 

When Netflix was available in the household, I was hoping there would be Downton Abbey for me to watch. Instead, I went straight for The Crown—another British history drama which based on true stories of the reign of the current monarch—HM The Queen. After watching a few drama series and movies on Netflix, it is time to go down to the Abbey for real this time. I have to say I love the series and got to know the life of an aristocrat in British society back then. 

I can resonate with Lady Mary Crawley (played by Michelle Dockery), who is the eldest among the Crawley siblings. In the first season of the series, she admitted to her father, The Lord Grantham (Hugh Bonneville) that she is stubborn, in a way, I can relate to her because I am stubborn in real life and doing the best that I can do my way. 

Currently, I am on the fifth season of Downton Abbey on Netflix. I cannot wait for more adventures of the Crawley family.

Healing Through Art

 

Illustration by Nishat Nabilah

By Cora-laine Moynihan (United Kingdom)

Brushing bristles across the tightly woven threads of cotton that makes the canvas, emotions are brought to life in the form of intricate swirls, carefully placed dots, and softly mixed colours. 

Kneading clay between fingers, stress is freed—disappearing with each press down of a palm.

Guiding the pencil, an image is brought to life, a memory long needed to be processed. 

Art is not just for creativity, or an escape from the everyday. Art is for wellbeing. For discovering your inner self that was once lost. Art is method of healing. Of processing trauma, pain, and illness. And it is a way to find our voice.

Its power over one’s mental health and recovery is immense, and that is why it has been harnessed in therapy to aid people when in mental strife. Many studies suggest that art therapy can be very valuable in treating issues such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and even some phobias. It helps you process complex emotions without words or sharing plainly with others, and find relief. 

That is why art is such an integral part of the work Safeline and I do. Safeline is a UK-based charity that specialises in supporting survivors of abuse and young people suffering from poor mental health. As part of their clinical services, they offer drama and art therapies as a type of counselling you can receive—providing you with a safe, private space to express every and any emotion you are feeling as well as to address any traumas or challenges you have faced. For young people, art is used as an educational aid just as much as a therapeutic one. As part of Safeline’s education and prevention projects, young people are encouraged to engage in arts and crafts, drama, music, and sport to explore sensitive, safe-guarding subjects (for example: online-grooming, drugs and alcohol, and sexual harassment).

As a Safeline Ambassador, and previously a young person that used the service, art is integral to my own social action work and mental health. From creating an art calendar to sharing poetry, I have used art to raise awareness of sexual abuse and mental illness in order to create a safer community for all to live it. And I would not have done this had I never experienced the power art can have on one’s wellbeing. 

So, the next time you face turmoil, either internally or externally, try turning to art to free your mind. Express your emotions in paint, or clay, or writing. Whichever speaks to you most.