Abul Kashem, Jamalpur
Boat racing has been one of Bengal’s joyous traditions since ancient times. The event continues to bring excitement and joy to people across the region.
Although there is no exact history of when boat racing became popular as a form of public entertainment in the country, three popular legends exist about its origins.
The first holds that boat racing began with the formation of the navy during the reign of the Nawabs and kings in the Muslim era. It gradually became popular among the Nawab Bahadurs, with naval exercises held every year.
According to a second legend among the Hindu community, boat racing began around the bathing procession of Lord Jagannath. During the procession, many boats carrying bathers reportedly began racing, providing entertainment for visitors, boatmen, fishermen and passengers.
The third legend dates the tradition to the early 18th century. According to the story, the then Gazi Pir of the Muslim community stood on one bank of the Meghna River and called his devotees on the opposite bank to come to him. The devotees travelled by dinghy and, after reaching the middle of the river, encountered danger as the river swelled. Hearing of the danger, boats nearby began rushing towards them. At one point, rows of boats raced against one another, which many believe marked the beginning of boat racing.
The enchanting sight of boats moving across the river as rowers paddle rhythmically to the sound of songs is incomparable. The joyful chants of the boatmen and the rhythmic movement of the boats create a vibrant atmosphere on the water.
To preserve the heritage of Islampur in Jamalpur district and introduce the lost tradition to the new generation, an annual boat race is held on the Old Brahmaputra River. The event attracts a large number of visitors each year.
As part of this tradition, the Old Brahmaputra River boat race was held on August 19/26 in Goalerchar Union of the upazila. Alkasur Rahman Billal was present as the chief guest, while Kajal Mridha and Goalerchar Chairman Abdur Rahim Badsha were the special guests. Chhatra Dal, Yuvdal and other prominent figures of the area were also present.
Ashar Alo of Mohammadpur village in Goalerchar Union won first place. Ananda Tori Sangha of Kandarchar village in Char Goalini Union of the upazila secured second place, while Ekta Sangha of Nilokxia village in Bakshiganj upazila finished third.
Later, the chief guest handed over a motorcycle as the first prize, a cow as the second prize and an LED TV as the third prize to the winners. #EK
