Colourless Boishakhi fair ahead of Jabbar’s Boli Khela leaves vendors disheartened
On Thursday, the eve of the 116th edition of the traditional wrestling tournament, the Laldighi field and its surroundings—usually alive with crowds and lined with stalls selling toys, bangles, masks, and street food—were strikingly quiet
Once a vibrant display of culture, commerce, and festivity, this year's Boishakhi fair surrounding the iconic Abdul Jabbar's Boli Khela in Chattogram has taken on an uncharacteristically subdued tone.
On Thursday, the eve of the 116th edition of the traditional wrestling tournament, the Laldighi field and its surroundings—usually alive with crowds and lined with stalls selling toys, bangles, masks, and street food—were strikingly quiet.
The festive atmosphere that once defined the area was notably absent due to restrictions by the Chattogram Metropolitan Police (CMP).
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On security grounds, they barred all stalls from the main road between Anderkilla and the Court Building, traditionally a core part of the fairground. Only stalls inside the Laldighi field were permitted, and by Wednesday night, police had cleared all others from pavements and streets.
Vendors, many of whom travelled from across the country, sat with weary expressions and unsold wares. Several were already packing up, citing losses after being denied permission to set up their usual roadside stalls.
The century-old tradition of Jabbar's Boli Khela began in 1909, initiated by Abdul Jabbar Saudagar as part of the anti-British movement. Over time, it evolved into one of Chattogram's most beloved cultural festivals, featuring a bustling folk fair lasting up to a week.
Each year, over 2,500 vendors participate, offering everything from household items to traditional trinkets, attracting thousands of visitors.
On Thursday, several vendors hesitated to open their partially set-up stalls amid continued police presence. Others voiced their frustrations. "I've been here four days, hoping for good business," said Md Kawsar from Narayanganj. "But I was just about to open, and the police stopped us. It's all over."
Long-time participant Laila, who has attended the fair for 20 years, echoed the sentiment: "Had I known this would happen, I wouldn't have come. I can't even set up my shop. Everything's lost—rent, travel, effort."
Rina Begum from Jashore, who brought bangles and accessories, was visibly emotional. "I thought I could earn something for my daughters. But now, I'll go back empty-handed. This road used to be the heart of the fair, and now we're not allowed to stand here."
A CMP official commented, "There's enough space inside the field. For public safety and order, roadside stalls weren't permitted this year."
Despite the setback, the main Boli Khela event is set to take place at 4 pm on Friday at Laldighi field. A sand stage has been prepared, with accommodations arranged for participating wrestlers.
The event is sponsored by Grameenphone and will be inaugurated by CMP Commissioner Hasib Aziz, with Chattogram City Corporation Mayor Shahadat Hossain presenting the prizes. Organisers are working diligently to ensure the success of the traditional wrestling competition.
