Dhaka turns 416: Traditional boat race held on Buriganga

A traditional boat race was held on the Buriganga this afternoon (21 August) as part of month-long celebrations marking Dhaka’s 416th anniversary.

Organised by Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) under the theme “In celebration, in pride, in responsibility”, the race began at Kholamora Ghat and ended at Waiz Ghat.

The prize-giving ceremony was later held aboard the century-old paddle steamer PS Mahsud, anchored at Swarighat. People from different parts of the city gathered to watch the race.

Dhaka-7 lawmaker Hamidur Rahman said the race could not be held on as large a scale as planned this year, but it would be organised on a bigger scale next year.

“Today, it was like a fair in a beautiful atmosphere. Our mothers and sisters also came. The boat race will be held every year,” he added.

State Minister for Liberation War Affairs Ishraque Hossain thanked the DSCC administrator and local residents for organising the race as part of the “Hridoye Dhaka 416” celebrations.

Such traditional events had not been held in Dhaka for a long time, and steps were being taken to revive the city’s heritage, he said.

He also called for preserving Old Dhaka’s heritage and reducing pollution in the Buriganga, saying everyone must work together to make the city liveable for future generations.

DSCC Administrator Abdus Salam said the boat race was organised as part of the Hridoye Dhaka 416 festival and expressed satisfaction at the large turnout.

“Dhaka had been lifeless for a long time. We want to bring the city back to life and showcase everything that represents its heritage, including its customs, culture and language,” he said.

He urged city residents to take responsibility for keeping Dhaka clean and green.