The historic Kumar River in Bhanga, Faridpur, came alive again on Friday (September 18) as a traditional boat race was held after a nine-year hiatus, drawing thousands of spectators to both banks.
The race was organised to mark Vishwakarma Puja, continuing a tradition that has been held on the Kumar River for around a century. Decorated boats raced through the water as skilled boatmen rowed in rhythm, creating a festive atmosphere across the area. Reports from local outlets also confirmed that the long-running traditional event returned after a prolonged break.
Crowds began gathering along both banks from around midday, with people arriving from different areas to watch the much-anticipated competition. The race began after 3pm.
A total of 18 decorated boats from Faridpur and neighbouring districts took part, according to organisers. Each boat carried teams of experienced boatmen and rowers. The sight of the boats speeding across the river, combined with rhythmic oar strokes and cheers from the spectators, turned the riverbanks into a festive gathering.
Local residents said the boat race had traditionally been organised every year on the occasion of Vishwakarma Puja. However, the event had remained suspended for about nine years due to local political disputes and other complications.
The formal opening ceremony was conducted by Cultural Affairs State Minister Ali Newaz Mahmud Khaiyam. Faridpur-4 lawmaker Shohidul Islam Babul, Deputy Commissioner Mazharul Islam, Superintendent of Police Shahriar Mohammad Miyaji and District Council Administrator Afzal Hossain Khan Palash were also present.
A rural fair lasting around 15 days was also organised around Bhanga Bazar and adjoining areas to mark the occasion. Alongside stalls selling various goods, the fair featured different entertainment activities, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Special security measures were put in place as large crowds gathered to watch the race. Police, RAB and Ansar personnel were deployed, along with fire service teams, medical teams and divers.
Two large digital screens were installed in front of Bhanga Municipality to allow spectators to watch a live broadcast of the race.
One spectator said the return of the boat race after such a long gap had brought great joy to local residents. The spectator said they had come with their family and hoped the traditional event would be organised every year.
After the race, all 18 participating boats received gifts from the organising committee.
At the event, Faridpur-4 lawmaker Shohidul Islam Babul said the celebration belonged to the people of Bhanga and Faridpur rather than to any particular political group. He said the community could demonstrate its ability to celebrate together despite differences.
He also said the event had been discontinued during the previous government because of political groupings, depriving ordinary people of the traditional celebration.
Cultural Affairs State Minister Ali Newaz Mahmud Khaiyam said the tradition should continue and described such festivals as part of Bengali culture. He called for collective support to preserve and promote traditional rural cultural events.
The return of the boat race after nine years has revived a sense of a lost tradition among residents of Bhanga. Organisers hope the historic competition will continue regularly in the coming years around Vishwakarma Puja.
