Reported by Suprovat Sydney : Lakemba, 21 July 2025 In a heartfelt gesture of compassion and solidarity, the Mayor of Canterbury-Bankstown, Bilal El-Hayek, and Deputy Mayor Clr Karl Saleh OAM paid a visit to the family of the late Abul Bashar Khan on Monday evening at their Lakemba residence.
The visit was a mark of respect to Bashar Khan, a well-known figure in the local community whose sudden passing has left many in mourning. Surrounded by close relatives, friends, and members of the Bangladeshi-Australian community, the Mayor and Deputy Mayor offered their condolences and support to the grieving family.
During the visit, Mayor El-Hayek spoke warmly about the importance of community and the value of individuals like Bashar Khan who quietly contributed to the fabric of multicultural Australia. “We are here not just as representatives of the Council, but as fellow members of this diverse community who stand with the Khan family during this difficult time,” he said.
Deputy Mayor Karl Saleh echoed these sentiments, expressing deep sympathy for the family’s loss and praising the unity displayed by the community. “It is in moments like these that the true strength of our city is shown through compassion, remembrance, and support for one another.”
The Khan family expressed their gratitude for the visit, acknowledging the Mayor and Deputy Mayor’s presence as a great comfort during their time of sorrow. Community leaders and neighbours also shared stories and paid tribute to Bashar’s kind-hearted nature and enduring legacy.
20 July 2025 — On Sunday evening, the Qur’anic Society at Lakemba Musalla organised a heartfelt gathering of prayer (Du’a) in memory of the late Bashar Khan, drawing a large number of musallin (worshippers) from the local community.
The evening began with the collective recitation of Surah Yaseen, followed by a moving Du’a led by respected community elder Hajji Ridwan Akkawai. Attendees joined in solemn reflection and prayer, seeking mercy and forgiveness for the departed soul and strength for the grieving family.
The Musalla was filled with emotion as community members, young and old, came together in unity to honour Bashar Khan’s life and legacy. The Qur’anic Society expressed its appreciation for the overwhelming turnout and the display of spiritual solidarity.
The gathering served as a powerful reminder of the strong bonds within the community and the importance of faith, prayer, and remembrance in times of loss.
Bashar Khan was laid to rest at Kemps Creek Cemetery after a Janazah prayer held at the Lakemba Mosque on Friday, 18 July 2025
The visit by the city’s top officials reinforces Canterbury-Bankstown’s commitment to honouring the lives and contributions of its residents, regardless of background, and underlines the strength of multicultural unity in times of grief.