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In honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, a nonprofit organization breaks down for News 12 how they have been keeping Bengali traditions alive for three decades in New York City.

Annie Ferdous, the artistic director of the Bangladesh Institute of Performing Arts, has been bringing the melodic sounds of Bangladesh throughout the city for 30 years.

"I love my country. I want people to know what my country is, what my culture is, and knowing your roots is like telling people who you are," Ferdous said.

Founded by several Bangladeshi artists who immigrated to New York, the institute is a way to keep the culture and arts of Bangladesh alive in their new home.

The nonprofit has since grown to over 200 children, offering classes that teach the Bangla language, music and dances choreographed by Ferdous herself.

What started in a basement now has three locations between Brooklyn and Queens.