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The traditional boat race has returned to the Gorai River in Kushtia after a four-year hiatus, drawing thousands of spectators and creating a festive atmosphere along both banks.
The three-day competition began at around 3:00pm Friday at Ghoraighat in Kumarkhali’s Koya Union, organised by local residents.
Seven teams from Kushtia and several other districts took part in the opening-day races.
The rhythmic chants of boatmen and the splash of oars echoed across the river as thousands of people gathered along both banks to enjoy the traditional sporting event.
The boat race was last held at Ghoraighat in 2022.
A rural fair and cultural programme have also been arranged alongside the competition, attracting visitors and boosting business for local vendors.
Imran Hossain Yunus, convener of the organising committee, said the event was organised to keep young people away from drugs and other forms of moral degradation while preserving the traditional heritage of rural Bengal.
He said racing boats from Kushtia and other parts of the country are participating in the competition.
Kushtia-1 lawmaker Reza Ahmed Bachchu inaugurated the three-day event. Reserved women’s seat lawmaker Farida Yasmin, local BNP leaders and government officials were also present.
The competition will conclude with a closing ceremony on Sunday, September 20. Attractive prizes, including motorcycles, refrigerators and televisions, have been announced for the winners.