Celebrating Cultural Heritage: Traditional Boat Races in South Kamrup
Traditional Boat Races at No. 2 Jiakur and Kulsi
Traditional boat races held at No. 2 Jiakur and Kulsi in South Kamrup (Photo: AT)
Palasbari, Oct 27: The traditional boat races at No. 2 Jiakur and Kulsi in South Kamrup, coinciding with Lakshmi Puja, attracted a large crowd, showcasing the area's vibrant cultural heritage and an age-old sporting tradition that has been cherished through generations.
In Jiakur, located within the Palasbari LAC, the boat race organized by Jiakur Raij Gayarah on Sunday drew numerous spectators along the banks of the Kalahi river, who enthusiastically supported the competing teams. This event exemplified the region's rich cultural traditions and community bonding.
Local resident Rupam Saud shared that the boat race has long been a vital aspect of the community's cultural identity. He emphasized that the event not only preserves this ancient tradition but also fosters unity and camaraderie among the people.
In the Jiakur race, the Raijor Ashirbad team from Jarapara clinched the top spot, while the Mama-Bhagin boat secured second place. The winners received cash prizes of Rs 12,000 and Rs 10,000, respectively, along with trophies.
On the other hand, the 53rd Kulsi boat race took place on Saturday on the Kulsi river to celebrate Lakshmi Puja. Organized by the Kulsi Youth Club, this annual event attracted participants and spectators from various regions of South Kamrup.
Pradip Rabha, president of the Kulsi Youth Club, noted that this tradition began in 1973 when local villagers initiated a boat race on the Kulsi river. Initially celebrated on Lakshmi Puja day, the event was later moved to the day before due to requests from supporters.
The competition gained significant traction after the Kulsi Youth Club began organizing it on a larger scale, ensuring the continuation of this traditional sport for over fifty years.
This year, ten boats participated in the competition, with the Ma Lakhimi boat from Ratanpur taking first place and receiving a cash prize of Rs 20,001. The Raijor Ashirbad boat from Jarapara finished second, earning Rs 15,001.
Notable attendees at the Kulsi event included Palasbari MLA Himangshu Shekhar Baishya, Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council executive member Rama Kanta Rabha, Kamrup Zilla Parishad vice president Tanuja Rabha, Dr. Pranab Kumar Rabha, Samudra Rabha, and Kulsi forest range officer Kankanjyoti Kaushik.
Both events underscored the lasting appeal of traditional boat races in South Kamrup, uniting individuals from various backgrounds and generations. Organizers and community members expressed optimism that these competitions would persist in the future, safeguarding the region's cultural legacy and community spirit.