Kushtia: The traditional boat race of rural Bengal made a triumphant return to the Gorai River in Kushtia after a hiatus of nearly four years, attracting large crowds and transforming the riverbanks into a festive hub on Friday.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the three-day event was organized by the residents of Koya Union in Kumarkhali upazila, with the festivities extending from Ghorai Ghat to the Haripur Bridge area. People of all ages began gathering along the riverbanks from noon, eager to witness the much-anticipated event. Many families and groups of friends arrived early to secure a good viewing spot for the competition.
The races officially commenced at 4pm, and as the boats sped across the river, the spectators erupted in cheers, clapping and chanting to support their favorite teams. The synchronized rowing of the boatmen, accompanied by the spectators' enthusiastic cheers, created a vibrant and festive atmosphere along the Gorai River.
In addition to the boat races, a rural fair was set up on the riverbank, offering traditional food, toys, and other items. Families were seen enjoying the fair, with children and teenagers exploring the various stalls.
The opening ceremony was presided over by Imran Hossain Yunus, the convener of the organizing committee and president of Koya Union BNP, while Kushtia District Council Administrator and former MP Prof Sohbar Uddin inaugurated the event. Kushtia-1 (Daulatpur) MP Reza Ahmed Bachchu Molla served as the chief guest, and reserved women's seat MP Farida Yasmin was the main speaker.
The event also saw the participation of several special guests, including Kushtia Sadar upazila BNP General Secretary Zahidul Islam Biplob, Kushtia district Jatiotabadi Chatradal Convener Mozakkir Rahman Rabbi, and Kushtia district Swechhasebak Dal Organising Secretary and Daily Muktomoncho editor Shariful Islam Sharif. Local political leaders, public representatives, prominent citizens, and individuals from various professions were also present.
Organizers emphasized that the boat race is not merely a competition but a part of the enduring folk culture and social gatherings of rural Bengal. They highlighted that the event aims to preserve the fading tradition and strengthen community bonds among local people.
Prof Sohbar Uddin noted that the government has been focusing on reviving traditional rural sports and folk culture. He mentioned that BNP leaders and activists were encouraged to organize such events to reconnect people with rural traditions. The Gorai River boat race was organized as part of this initiative.
MP Reza Ahmed Bachchu advocated for the annual organization of the boat race and suggested that efforts should be made to regularly hold other traditional sports that are fading away from rural Bengal.
The competition saw seven boats participating on the first day, and the three-day event is set to conclude on Sunday with the final race and prize distribution.