The banks of the Kaliganga River in Manikganj turned into a festive hub on Saturday as the traditional boat race returned with the beat of dhol drums, rhythmic paddling, and the cheer of thousands of spectators.
Crowds of men, women, and children began gathering at Beutha Ghat from early morning, with numbers swelling into a sea of spectators by the afternoon as visitors watched the thrilling contest from riverbanks, onboard boats, and adjacent elevated spots.
A total of 22 boats from various upazilas of Manikganj, as well as Kurigram, Tangail, and Pabna, competed across four categories.
The lineup featured 10 boats in the Khella-Goyayta division, five in Ghasi-Chhipa, four in Chhandi, and three in Pansi, alongside two banana-tree rafts measuring 70 and 80 cubits in length. As the competition commenced, oarsmen rowed in unison to the beat of music, drawing loud applause and cheers from the packed banks.
In the Chhandi division, ‘Gayan Bari’ claimed the championship title and was awarded an electric motorbike. ‘Bhai Bhai Enterprise’ secured second place, followed by ‘Gayan Tori’ in third and ‘Sonar Chan’ in fourth.
In the other categories, ‘Baimail Express’ emerged victorious in the Ghasi division, while ‘Mayer Doa’ from Kurigram secured top spot in the Khella division.
‘Janata Express’ won the championship title in the Pansi division. Winners were awarded motorcycles and electric bikes, while runner-up boats across second, third, and fourth positions received refrigerators and other prizes.
A major highlight of the event was a boat originating from Roumari in Kurigram, which drew special attention from spectators. Organisers shared that the vessel set off on the morning of 30 September from Baguarchar village under Bandaber union in Roumari and navigated the Brahmaputra River for nearly three days to reach Beutha Ghat. Built using Indian Sal wood at an approximate cost of Tk6 lakh over a period of one year, the race marked the boat’s maiden competition.
Attending the inaugural and prize distribution ceremony as chief guest, Food Minister and Member of Parliament for Manikganj-3 constituency Afroza Khanam Rita emphasised the importance of continuing such arrangements to preserve rural traditions.
She said boat racing is not merely entertainment, but is deeply connected to Bengal’s rivers, human livelihoods, and culture, playing a crucial role in presenting fading rural heritage to the new generation. She added that the Kaliganga River is inextricably linked to the lives and heritage of the people of Manikganj, and the massive public turnout proved that public attachment to native culture remains intact.
Masud Parvez, member-secretary of the boat race management and executive committee, noted that attractive prizes including motorcycles, electric bikes, and refrigerators were arranged for the participating boats.
The event was presided over by ATM Johir Alam Khan Lodi, convener of the boat race management and executive committee.
Among others who addressed the gathering were Member of Parliament for Manikganj-1 constituency SA Jinnah Kabir, Deputy Commissioner Nazmun Ara Sultana, Superintendent of Police Golam Sarwar Alam, and District Council Administrator Jamilur Rashid Khan, alongside political and administrative officials from various levels.
