Mukta Adhikari wins women’s boat race in Narail to uphold rural tradition

Women took up oars to compete in a traditional rural boat race in Narail. The National Women’s Boat Race at Hatiara in Narail Sadar upazila drew 16 boats, creating a festive atmosphere. Mukta Adhikari of Guakhola village won the competition.

Babita Sarkar of Hatiara village finished second in the race held on Saturday (November 8) afternoon. Rina Biswas came third, while Champa Goswami of Maliat village finished fourth.

Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation organised the competition as part of a two-day programme featuring women’s boat racing, a cultural festival and free healthcare services.

SM Ziauddin Hyder, special assistant to the prime minister on health affairs, inaugurated the competition. Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation Chairman Samimuzzaman presided over the event.

Those present included Narail-1 lawmaker Biswas Jahangir Alam, reserved-seat women lawmakers Newaz Halima Arli and Mahmuda Habiba, Parjatan Corporation Director Md Gani Ul Azam, acting deputy commissioner Lincoln Biswas and Alkapuri Cultural Centre President Banani Biswas.

Speaking at the event, Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation Chairman Samimuzzaman said key aims of the initiative included introducing the younger generation to rural traditions that were disappearing and encouraging women to participate in boat racing.

He also said the corporation planned to work in different parts of the country to develop rural tourism and folk culture. It would also take initiatives to promote traditional rural songs and culture, including Jari, Sari and Murshidi music.

Describing women’s participation in boat racing as a matter of joy, he said such events would help preserve traditions while creating new opportunities for women to participate.