Photo: BSS

KISHOREGANJ, Jan 9, 2026 (BSS) - A traditional horse racing competition, once a common feature of rural Bengal but now on the verge of extinction, drew thousands of spectators to Pakundia upazila of the district on Thursday afternoon.

The event was held at Boro Ajaldi ground adjacent to Sukhia Bazar, where people from surrounding villages gathered hours before the competition began. 

Men, women, children and elderly spectators lined both sides of the field, creating a festive atmosphere. Many parents lifted their children onto their shoulders so they could get a clear view, while groups of women and girls attended together.

Local residents said the event brought back memories of a tradition that was once regularly practiced in the area. Many spectators expressed excitement at witnessing horse racing after a long gap and said they wanted the younger generation to experience this fading rural sport.

BNP-nominated candidate for the Kishoreganj-2 (Katiadi-Pakundia) constituency, Advocate Md. Jalal Uddin, attended the event as the chief guest. Former Sukhia Union Jubo Dal president Amin Kazi presided over the programme, while current president Wasimul Bari Wasim conducted it.

Chandipasha Union Parishad Chairman Md. Shamsuddin, Upazila BNP joint convener Atiqur Rahman Masud, Municipal BNP president S.A.M. Minhaj Uddin, Upazila Jubo Dal senior joint convener Rakibul Alam Choton and Sukhia Union BNP convener Monirul Islam Shamim were present, among others.

Former Sukhia Union Jubo Dal general secretary Alamin Mia formally inaugurated the competition.

Spectator Ripon Mia said he tries to attend horse racing events whenever possible. "I brought my family today because it is close to my house. This tradition may not exist in the future, so I wanted my children to see it," he said.

Similar sentiments were echoed by spectators Ujjal Mia and Zahirul Islam of Ghagra village, who said that horse racing, once a familiar rural pastime, has now become a rare sight.

Addressing the gathering, Advocate Md. Jalal Uddin said traditional rural entertainment plays an important role in shaping the younger generation. He emphasized that organizing more such events could help keep youth away from drugs, terrorism and social crimes such as eve-teasing.