117th Jabbar’s Bali Khela and Baisakhi Mela Begin April 24

The 117th edition of the traditional Abdul Jabbar’s Balikhela will be held at the historic Laldighi Maidan in Chittagong. Organisers have completed preparations for a three-day Baisakhi fair to mark the occasion.

The much-anticipated Balikhela will take place on Saturday (April 25) at 3:00 pm.

Chittagong City Corporation (CCC) Mayor Dr Shahadat Hossain shared the details at a press conference held on Wednesday (April 22) at the CCC Library Auditorium.

He said the late Abdul Jabbar Saudagar started the event in 1909 to prepare local youth for the anti-British movement. Over time, it has grown into one of Chittagong’s major folk festivals.

The mayor said efforts are underway to upgrade Laldighi square while preserving its historical significance. There is also a proposal to name the area “Jabbar’s Corner.”

According to organisers, Chittagong Metropolitan Police Commissioner Hasan Md. Shawkat Ali will inaugurate this year’s event. Mayor Dr Shahadat Hossain will attend as chief guest and distribute prizes, while Chittagong-9 MP Abu Sufian will be present as a special guest.

The Baisakhi fair will begin on April 24 and continue until early Sunday (April 26). The schedule has been slightly adjusted due to SSC examinations.

Authorities have taken extensive security measures to ensure safety. Police and RAB will deploy CCTV cameras, watchtowers, drones, SWAT teams, and bomb disposal units. Medical teams and fire service units will also remain on standby.

Organising committee president Mohammad Hafizur Rahman and general secretary Shawkat Anwar Badal said they aim to promote Balikhela internationally. They also urged the government to award Abdul Jabbar Saudagar with the Independence Award and to establish a Balikhela Academy in Chittagong.