The picturesque Karatoya River in Bogura witnessed a spectacular showdown as Udal Pankhi from Kalaihata village in Baliadighi, Gabtali Upazila, emerged victorious in an exhilarating boating competition.
Thousands of spectators flocked to the riverbanks, spanning from Maltinagar SP Bridge to Bejora Bridge, a distance of approximately 3 kilometers, to witness this thrilling event.
The competition, which featured a total of eight boats hailing from Gabtali, Sariakandi, and Sonatala of Bogura, was masterfully organised by the district police.
The boat-men with their rhythm of sari gaan accompanied by beats of huge drums enthralled the audience greatly.
Ramisha Islam, a student attending the boat race, shared her excitement, saying, "This is my first time witnessing a boat race. Normally, the Karatoya River resembles a mere stream, but today it's pulsating with life. We hope to see more such vibrant performances."
Nurul Haque, who had come to visit his in-laws on the occasion of the boat race, expressed his delight, saying, "It's been a while since I last saw these boats. Everyone is thoroughly enjoying themselves, and it's a fantastic experience. Such boat races are a rare sight in the city these days." Neela Khatun, a housewife, revealed, "Boat races on the Karatoya River are a post-festival tradition, infusing the area with a festive spirit. Relatives have come to visit, and after completing our household chores, we all came to relish the boat race while sitting by the riverbank."
The prize distribution ceremony for the boat race was presided over by Bogura Superintendent of Police Sudip Kumar Chakraborty, with Bogura 6 Constituency Member of Parliament, Ragebul Ahsan Ripu, gracing the occasion as the chief guest. Deputy Commissioner Saiful Islam and Civil Surgeon Dr. Mohammad Shafiul Azam also attended the event as special guests.
The speakers said that boat races are a traditional form of entertainment in rural areas but now urbanites also enjoy the sport and the presence of thousands of people is encouraging. Now the aim should be to familiarise the younger generation with boat races, which symbolise the rich cultural history of the country.
Chief guest Ragebul Ahsan Ripu passionately proclaimed, "Our foremost mission now is to safeguard the Karatoya River diligently. We will ardently strive to restore life to the Karatoya, regardless of its size or strength, even if it means putting our lives on the line."
