The two-day long traditional Vela Baich competition of rural Bengal started in Chatmohar

To preserve the rural tradition and introduce the new generation, a two-day Velabaich competition was started at Chatmohar in Pabna. The competition was inaugurated for the 7th time on Saturday (October 19) afternoon at Kamar Bill of Mahela village of the upazila.

Organized by Mahela villagers, the competition was inaugurated by businessman and social worker Anwar Parvez Madhu. Former Chairman of Parswdanga Union Parishad, Rabiul Karim Tarek, was the chief guest at the opening ceremony presided over by Alhaj Abu Bakkar Pramanik. Special guests were Shahedur Rahman Shahed and Majnur Rahman Master.

Five rafts participated on the opening day of competition. The ferries are Khatbari New Banglar Bagh, Pabna Express, Banglar Duldul, Mahela Express and Barkona Mae Doa.

A large crowd of women, men and children of all ages gather around the bill to watch the traditional velabaich competition of rural Bengal. The final game of the competition will be held tomorrow, Sunday (October 20).

Organizing committee member and founder Anwar Parvez Madhu said, 'Traditional sports of rural Bengal are disappearing day by day. Velabych competition is one of the attractions among the people of Bilanchal. We are organizing this competition to keep the competition going and to introduce the new generation. The continuity of this arrangement will continue in the future.

Former Chairman of Parswdanga Union Parishad Rabiul Karim Tarek said, 'Irrespective of party affiliation, we organize this competition. The people of the village enjoy pure bliss. The new generation is getting reacquainted with a rural sport. A festive mood prevails in the area around this competition.'