The traditional boat race of rural Bengal returned to the Gorai River in Kushtia after nearly four years, drawing huge crowds and turning both banks of the river into a festive gathering on Friday.
The three-day boat race was organized by residents of Koya Union in Kumarkhali upazila, with festivities stretching from Ghorai Ghat to the Haripur Bridge area.
People of different ages began gathering along the riverbanks from noon to enjoy the event, with many arriving with their families and friends.
The competition formally began at 4pm. As the boats raced across the river, spectators cheered enthusiastically, clapping and chanting to encourage their favourite teams. The rhythmic strokes of the boatmen and the cheers of the crowd created a festive atmosphere along the Gorai River.
A rural fair was also set up on the riverbank on the occasion. Vendors displayed traditional food, toys and various other items, while many families were seen visiting the fair with children and teenagers.
The opening ceremony was chaired by Imran Hossain Yunus, convener of the organizing committee and president of Koya Union BNP. Kushtia District Council Administrator and former MP Prof Sohbar Uddin inaugurated the event.
Kushtia-1 (Daulatpur) MP Reza Ahmed Bachchu Molla was the chief guest, while reserved women's seat MP Farida Yasmin was the main speaker.
Kushtia Sadar upazila BNP General Secretary Zahidul Islam Biplob, Kushtia district Jatiotabadi Chatradal Convener Mozakkir Rahman Rabbi, and Kushtia district Swechhasebak Dal Organizing Secretary and Daily Muktomoncho editor Shariful Islam Sharif, among others, attended the event as special guests.
Local political leaders, public representatives, prominent citizens and people from different professions were also present.
The organizers said the boat race is not merely a competition but part of the long-standing folk culture and social gathering of rural Bengal. They said one of the main objectives of the event is to preserve the gradually disappearing tradition and strengthen bonds of harmony and community among local people.
Prof Sohbar Uddin said the government has placed emphasis on reviving traditional rural sports and folk culture.
He said BNP leaders and activists had been encouraged to organise such events to bring rural traditions back to the people. He said the boat race on the Gorai River was organized as part of that effort.
He also said events such as boat races are important for introducing the new generation to the traditions, folk culture and roots of rural Bengal.
MP Reza Ahmed Bachchu said the boat race should be organized every year and initiatives should also be taken to regularly arrange other traditional sports that are gradually disappearing from rural Bengal.
Seven boats participated in the first day of the competition.
The three-day event will conclude on Sunday with the final race and distribution of prizes.
