Grameenphone to sponsor 116th Jabbarer Boli Khela on Friday
With the patronage of Grameenphone, the 116th edition of the historic Abdul Jabbarer Boli Khela will take place on Friday, 25 April 2025, at Laldighi Maidan in Chattogram. Held annually on the 12th of Boishakh, the event continues to honour over a century of tradition in Bengali wrestling.
To mark the occasion, the Boishakhi Mela—a traditional fair—will be held for three days from 24–26 April at and around the Laldighi area.
A press conference was held on Tuesday at the Chattogram City Corporation Library to share details of the event. Among those present were Shawkat Anwar Badal, member secretary of the 2025 Boli Khela Organising Committee and grandson of Abdul Jabbar Soudagar; Morshed Ahmed, regional head of Grameenphone's Chattogram Central Region; and Md Abdullah Al Noor, head of market communication of the Chattogram Business Circle, alongside other senior committee members.
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Boli Khela was first organised in 1909 under the leadership of Abdul Jabbar Soudagar, a prominent businessman from Badarpati, Chattogram. The event was originally aimed at empowering Bengali youth during the anti-British movement. Since then, "Jabbarer Boli Khela" has become a cultural hallmark, drawing wrestlers and spectators from across the country.
This year, over 150 wrestlers from various districts have registered to compete in the traditional wrestling contest. The main ring will be set up at the historic Laldighi Maidan.
As in previous years, the Boishakhi Mela will accompany the event. Stalls will stretch from Kotwali Thana junction to Andarkilla, westward to Cinema Palace intersection, and eastward to Jail Road in Badarpati, offering everything from toys and household items to local delicacies.
Shawkat Anwar Badal said preparations are ongoing in coordination with Chattogram Metropolitan Police, City Corporation, and the fair committee to ensure a festive and safe celebration. "We are confident that with everyone's participation and support, we will successfully organise this traditional event," he said.
Morshed Ahmed of Grameenphone said, "Grameenphone is honoured to support such a historic and beloved event. We have sponsored Jabbarer Boli Khela in previous years as part of our commitment to preserving the country's heritage. Our support reflects our deep respect for local traditions and the spirit of community."
