A 100-year-old Wrestling Contest

WELL-OFF businessman Abdul Jabbar Sawdagor of Badarpati area in Chittagong organised the first Boli Khela in 1909 to encourage youths to join the anti-British movement and help them improve their physical strength. From then on this wrestling competition has been known as Jabbar-er Boli Khela to the people of the region. The competition has become a festival, and a three-day Baishakhi Fair is also held around it.

This year the 107th Boli Khela was on the 12th of Baishakh and wrestlers from various areas of the country took part. People look forward to the fair at the Lal Dighi ground since special treats to home decoration objects are available there. 

Photo: Anurup Kanti Das