Photo: BSS

CHATTOGRAM, April 22, 2026 (BSS): Traditional 117th Abdul Jabbar's Balikhela wrestling competition in Chattogram will be held on April 25 at Laldighi Maidan (ground) here. 

Additionally, a three-day Baisakhi fair will be held from April 24 to 26 in and around the same venue.  

All preparations for the event have been completed, as announced by City Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain during a press conference at the Chattogram City Corporation (CCC) Library Auditorium this noon. 

The mayor mentioned that the late Abdul Jabbar Sawdagar initiated Balikhela in 1909 to train the youth for the anti-British movement. Over the years, Balikhela has evolved into a prominent folk festival in Chattogram. 

The fair committee proposed renaming the Laldighi intersection to Jabbar's intersection, which has now been transformed into Abdul Jabbar Square to honor the festival's founder. 

The Chittagong City Corporation (CCC) officially named the intersection near Laldighi Maidan as 'Abdul Jabbar Square' and unveiled a terracotta artwork commemorating Balikhela. Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain inaugurated the square this afternoon, preserving the historical significance and tradition of the festival. 

The 117th Jabbar's Balikhela will be inaugurated by Chattogram Metropolitan Police (CMP) Commissioner Hasan Md. Shawkat Ali, with City Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain presenting prizes to the winners as the chief guest. Abu Sufian, MP, will be a special guest at the event. 
 
The Baisakhi Mela will commence on April 24 marking the Jabbar's Balikhela which will last till April 26. Security measures, including CCTV cameras, watch towers, drone surveillance installed and SWAT,  bomb disposal units,  RAB,  medical teams and fire services have been kept standby. The main ring for Balikhela will be at the Laldighi ground with over a hundred stalls at various locations in the city offering a range of items.  

The organizing committee aims to promote the tradition of Bali Khela internationally and has requested recognition for the late Abdul Jabbar Sawdagar and the establishment of a Balikhela Academy in Chattogram.