Chattogram historic Laldighi Maidan is set to host the traditional 117th Abdul Jabbar’s Boli Khela on April 25. All preparations for the three-day Boishakhi fair, organized to mark the occasion, have already been completed.
The information was shared at a press conference held at the Chattogram City Corporation library auditorium on Wednesday by Chattogram City Corporation (CCC) Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain.
He said, “We have made efforts to give Laldighi Square a new look, keeping its history and heritage in mind.”
He said, Boli Khela was initiated in 1909 by late Abdul Jabbar Soudagar to physically prepare youths during the anti-British movement. It has evolved into one of Chattogram’s most prominent traditional festivals.
According to the organizers, this year’s event will be inaugurated by Hasan Md. Shawkat Ali. Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain will attend as the chief guest and distribute prizes among the winners, while Abu Sufian will be present as a special guest.
The Boishakhi fair surrounding the Boli Khela will begin on April 24. Considering the ongoing SSC examinations, slight adjustments have been made to the schedule, and the fair will conclude by early morning on April 26.
To ensure smooth and secure of the event, strict security measures have been taken. CCTV cameras, watchtowers, drone surveillance, SWAT and bomb disposal units will be deployed. Additionally, medical teams and fire service personnel will remain on standby.
Organizing committee President Mohammad Hafizur Rahman and General Secretary Shawkat Anwar Badal said, they are working to promote the tradition of Boli Khela on an international level. They also demanded state recognition for late Abdul Jabbar Soudagar through the Independence Award and called for the establishment of a Boli Khela academy in Chattogram.
