-BSS Collage photo

KISHOREGANJ, Sept 9, 2026 (BSS) - The rhythmic splashing of oars, the spirited shouts of boatmen and the beats of drums turned Nikly Haor here into a vibrant spectacle today as thousands of people gathered to enjoy a traditional boat race, cherished folk tradition of rural Bengal.

One boat after another came speeding from afar as the boatmen rowed with all their might to reach the finish line first, while thousands of enthusiastic spectators cheered from both banks of the haor.

The colourful boat race took place at Chaillati Haor in Nikly this afternoon, organised by the Nikly Citizens' Forum.

As the afternoon progressed, crowds began gathering along the banks. Some came with their families, while others arrived in groups, turning the haor area into a festive gathering. Thousands of spectators came not only from Nikly but also from surrounding areas to watch the race.

Kishoreganj Zilla Parishad Administrator VP Khaled Saifullah Khan Sohel inaugurated the competition. Md Saddam Hossain Sadu presided over the inaugural session while Nikly Upazila Jubo Dal Acting Convener Md Shariful Haque conducted it.

A total of 10 boats, both large and small, took part in the race, which was held in three rounds. The boats raced across the water at high speed, with the changing rhythm and force of the boatmen's oars repeatedly altering the course of the competition.

In the large-boat category, Israfel Majhi of Nikly Sadar Union secured first place and received a refrigerator as the prize. Majibullah of Itkala Sardar Group from Singpur finished second and received a 32-inch LED television.

In the small-boat category, the Pachlipara team emerged champion and received a 24-inch LED television. The Mobarak team of Gobindapur in Nikly finished second and received a mobile phone.

However, participation and enjoyment appeared to matter more than the prizes. Each participating boat was also given a consolation prize.

According to the organisers, the boat race is not merely a competition but a centuries-old tradition and an integral part of the folk culture of rural Bengal. The event, deeply connected with the lives and livelihoods of people in the haor region, also provides an opportunity to introduce the cultural heritage of the past to the younger generation.