Kamrul Hasan : The 53rd traditional boat race competition of rural Bengal was held in Daulatpur, Manikganj with great pomp. To the tune of Baul Emperor Shah Abdul Karim`s famous song `Kon Mestori Nao Banail, Kemen Dekha Jay...`, the contestants moved forward pulling their boats, creating a festive atmosphere along the riverbank.

This competition has been taking place in Paramastul village of Khalsi Union for decades on the initiative of locals.

The final phase of this year`s event was held on the Paramastul River on Saturday (August 30) afternoon. Numerous boats from different parts of the country participated in the competition. Thousands of spectators gathered to enjoy the competition.

In this year`s boat race, Asmat Ali`s boat won the championship and Lalpur village`s boat won the runner-up.

At the event, prominent social worker Md. Abdus Chamad Master presided over the ceremony and presented the prizes to the winners. Dr. Khandaker Akbar Hossain Bablu, the eldest son of BNP`s late Secretary General Khandaker Delwar Hossain, former vice-president of the district BNP and member of the convening committee, presented the prizes to the winners.

The special guests at the event were Daulatpur Upazila BNP Senior Joint General Secretary Shafiul Alam Biltu, Khalsi Union BNP President Md. Abdul Mannan, BNP leader Md. Himon Khan, District Shaheed Zia Projonmo Dal Joint General Secretary Md. Shafiqul Islam Shafiq, Chakmirpur Union BNP Vice-President Md. Azizul Haque Mintu, and others. Khalsi Union Parishad Chairman Md. Ziaur Rahman was present as the opening speaker.

In his speech as the chief guest, Khandaker Akbar Hossain Bablu said, “Boat racing is one of our traditional sports. It is not just a competition, but a festival related to the culture, tradition and soul of Bengal. BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman also said that we need to give importance to the culture and sports of rural Bengal.”

He also said, “I feel very lucky to be with you today. I want to walk the path of the future with you.”