In an attempt to spread the joy of Durga Puja among people of all strata, locals in Gopalganj organized a traditional boat race on Tuesday.
With the help of a special grant from Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the organizers successfully held the race on a one kilometer area stretching from Ramshil Sluice Gate to Rammil Bridge on the Sandhya River.
The three-hour race began at 3pm when thousands of spectators gathered to witness the competition and also to socialize with their neighbours.
The banks of the river were full to the brim, adding colours to the puja festivity.
Boatmen from Kotalipara, Kosha, Chilekata and other nearby areas joined the race in their distinct boats.
Bimal Sikdar’s team from Pirarbari won the race, while Nittanando Baroi from Ramnagar came in second.
Former senior secretary Md Shahid Ulla Khandker was present on the occasion as the chief guest. He distributed prizes among the winners as well.
Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Ferdous Wahid, President of the local Awami League unit Bhabendranath Biswas, among others, were present on the occasion as well.
The chief guest at the price giving ceremony said that people of all religions are able to observe their religious occasions because Sheikh Hasina is in power now. She is also the reason behind massive development across the country, the chief guest said.
“If she is in power, then the people of the country will be well off,” he added.
