Jahangirnagar University (JU) organised a traditional Bhela Baich (raft race) for the first time to mark Chaitra Sankranti 1432, with a vibrant event held on Monday.
The competition began at 11:00am at ‘Rang Pukur’ near the university’s old arts building. Jahangirnagar University Central Students’ Union (Jucsu) arranged the programme.
Vice-Chancellor Mohammad Kamrul Ahsan inaugurated the event. Pro Vice-Chancellor (Administration) Sohel Ahmed, Jahangirnagar University Pro Vice-Chancellor (Academic) Md Mahfuzur Rahman, along with deans of different faculties and teachers, were present.
According to organisers, 22 students from 11 residential halls took part in the competition. The participants competed on 11 rafts made of banana trunks.
A large crowd of students and visitors gathered around Rang Pukur to watch the event. Many described it as a unique, culture-based initiative.
Shaheed Salam Barkat Hall secured first place by completing the race in 2 minutes and 35 seconds.
Nawab Salimullah Hall finished second in 3 minutes and 5 seconds, while AFM Kamaluddin Hall came third in 3 minutes and 10 seconds.
The organisers arranged distinctive prizes for the winners. The champion team received a swan, while the second and third-placed teams were awarded a local chicken and a pair of pigeons respectively.
Al Mamun, a representative of the winning team, said they felt proud and delighted to win in the inaugural event. He also thanked the organisers.
Jucsu Cultural Secretary and chief coordinator of the programme Muhibullah Sheikh said “The initiative aimed to bring a unique element to campus celebrations.”
He added that the rafts were built with the support of students and workers.
Vice-Chancellor Mohammad Kamrul Ahsan said such cultural programmes would continue in the future.
