A vibrant and colourful boat race took place on the Ichamati River at Kolakopa point of Nawabganj upazila in Dhaka district, attracting a crowd of over a hundred thousand spectators.
The event, which has been celebrated for over a century, was organized by local residents of Kolakopa village on Saturday afternoon.
The boat race, a significant part of the region's heritage, drew a massive crowd, including men, women and children, who gathered to enjoy the festive atmosphere.
In a thrilling competition, six grass boats, one chara boat and a kosa boat raced fiercely, with "Aglar Liton-2" emerging as the champion.
"Mama Bhagnye" secured second place, while Abdul Khalek finished third.
The winner was awarded a motorcycle as a prize.
Spectators lined the banks of the river, where they were treated to a lively scene of beautifully decorated boats and energetic rowers.
The event was accompanied by a vibrant fair, with food stalls offering local treats like pappar, nimki, piyaju and chana-chur. There were also various children's games, such as a balloon flight and merry-go-round rides, adding to the festive vibe.
The race has long been a symbol of local heritage, though, as Samir Molla, a longtime attendee of the event, reminisced, the river's former beauty and grandeur seem to have faded.
"In the past, I used to participate as a rower in these races," he shared. "Now, the river no longer holds the same charm. But Kolakopa boat race still brings a sense of joy to the people."
The fair that accompanies the boat race stretches across two banks of the river, and the entire five-kilometer area was packed with people, giving the event a lively, carnival-like atmosphere.
People from nearby areas, including Dohar's Bachchu Mia, expressed how the event still holds a special place in their hearts, even though it isn't as grand as in the past.
The boat race is seen as a vital tradition that continues to provide a sense of community and celebration in the region. It is an event that brings together the people of Nawabganj every year, reinforcing the area's long-standing connection with its riverine culture.
The event was attended by prominent local figures, including Khondokar Abu Ashfaq, President of Dhaka District BNP, who was the chief guest and Khondokar Abul Kalam, General Secretary of Nawabganj Upazila BNP, who inaugurated the ceremony.
Special guests included Mominul Islam, officer-in-charge (OC) of Nawabganj Police Station and various other local leaders and activists.
AS/SH