A colourful boat race was organised on Ichamati River at Gabtali upazila of Bogura district on Saturday. More than 25,000 people from four upazilas of the district gathered on both the banks of the river to enjoy this traditional boat race which has been a part of Bengali culture for centuries. People from all walks of life enjoyed the intense race which ended with festivity and enthusiasm.
The race started at 10:00 in the morning and continued till the evening. A total of 16 boats with a lot of boatmen from four upazilas of the district took part in the race. Referees appointed by the boat racing organising committee observed the races.
A festive environment took place revolving the race. Various temporary food and toy stalls were set up on the bank of the river for the viewers.
This boat race was arranged by the help of Baliadighee Awami League leaders and the locals of the upazila. Bogura Awami League General Secretary Ragebul Ahsan Ripu handed over the prizes to the teams after the race. The winning team received a bull as the price.
Boat race, also spelt (Nowka Bais) is a traditional dragon boat-style paddling sport of Bangladesh. Boats used for the race are long with many members known as Majhis (boatmen).
Boat race is one of the traditional sports of entertainment of riverine Bangladesh.
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RMA/IA