147 wrestlers register for 116th Jabbarer Boli Khela today in Chattogram

The iconic Jabbarer Boli Khela, one of the region's oldest and most revered traditional wrestling events, is all set for its 116th edition today (25 April) at the historic Laldighi Maidan. 

According to event organisers, this year's competition has already drawn significant attention, with a record 147 wrestlers officially registered to participate in the event as of this morning. 

Last year, 100 wrestlers fought in the ring for the prestigious title.

Held annually on 12 Boishakh, the wrestling event, founded in 1909 by Abdul Jabbar Saudagar, remains a major cultural spectacle for the people of Chattogram and beyond. 

Over time, Jabbarer Boli Khela has grown in both prestige and participation, with an increasing number of young wrestlers helping preserve this century-old tradition.

Among the confirmed participants this year are last season's four semifinalists — Bagha Sharif, Russel, Rashed, and Srijon Chakma — as well as the rising star Rubel Chakma, who has recently made headlines by winning multiple regional tournaments. 

With such a strong lineup, organisers expect this year's competition to be even more thrilling than before.

The wrestling ring has already been set up in the centre of Laldighi Maidan, where wrestlers will battle it out for supremacy. Once dominated by athletes from South Chattogram and Cox's Bazar, the event has seen a noticeable rise in the success of wrestlers from the Cumilla region in recent years, a trend that could very well continue this year.

The competition will be inaugurated at 3pm by Chattogram Metropolitan Police Commissioner Hasib Aziz, and Chattogram City Corporation Mayor Dr Shahadat Hossain is expected to attend the prize distribution ceremony.

While the event carries immense honour among participants, the monetary rewards are relatively modest. 

Last year's champion received a trophy and Tk 30,000 in cash, with Tk20,000 and Tk10,000 awarded to the runner-up and third-place winner, respectively. 

Organisers have not yet disclosed the prize money for this year.

Showkat Anwar Badal, member secretary of the organising committee, confirmed that most of the registered wrestlers from different parts of the country have already arrived in Chattogram. 

"Accommodation has been arranged at the City Corporation Public Library near Laldighi, although some participants have opted for hotel stays instead. All wrestlers have been instructed to report to the library auditorium by noon today", he added.

As the crowd begins to gather and excitement builds around Laldighi, Jabbarer Boli Khela once again promises to be a vibrant celebration of heritage, strength, and community spirit — bridging the past and present through the power of tradition.