‘Bagha’ Sharif champion at Jabbar’s Boli Khela in Chattogram
Chattogram Bureau
‘Bagha’ Sharif from Cumilla has emerged as the champion of the 116th edition of Chattogram’s traditional wrestling event, Jabbar’s Boli Khela on Friday.
Sharif defeated fellow wrestler Rashed, also from Cumilla, in the final match to claim the title.
Around 5:30 PM in the evening, the final showdown took place between Bagha Sharif and Rashed.
Sharif had also been crowned champion in the 115th edition of the event in 2024. In that edition, Rashed was the runner-up. In the centenary event held in 2023, Shahjalal Boli from Cumilla was the champion, while Tariqul Islam (Jibon) Boli from Chakaria finished as runner-up.
This year, a total of 147 wrestlers participated in the competition. Among them were several national-level athletes, including last year’s semifinalists Russell, Rashed, and Srijon Chakma.
The event was inaugurated by Chattogram Metropolitan Police (CMP) Commissioner Hasib Aziz. At the conclusion of the tournament, Chattogram City Corporation Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain distributed prizes among the winners as the chief guest.
Thousands of spectators from across Chattogram and other parts of the country gathered to witness this historic wrestling event. The entire venue was abuzz with cheers and enthusiasm.
Meanwhile, a three-day traditional Boishakhi Fair has been set up around Laldighi Maidan in the city to celebrate Jabbar’s Boli Khela. Stalls and festivities stretch from Cinema Palace to Laldighi intersection and Shah Amanat Mazar Gate, as well as from Anderkilla to Kotwali intersection.
The event was first initiated in 1909 by Abdul Jabbar Saudagar, a wealthy businessman from the Badarpati area of Chattogram.
It is learnt that although the British government conferred the title of "Khan Bahadur" on Abdul Jabbar Miah for organizing such a unique sports competition, he declined the honor.
