A step in the right direction
A two- day traditional 'Lathi Khela' Training Camp-10 ended on Wednesday.
Bangladesh Lathial Bahini, an organisation consisting of troupes trained in the age old martial art form, organised the camp that was held at Kushtia Stadium.
Kushtia Deputy Commissioner Abdul Mannan inaugurated the camp as chief guest on Tuesday, while Vice-Chancellor of Kushtia Islamic University Professor Dr. Alauddin was present as chief guest on the concluding day.
The camp was held to revitalise and expand the horizons of the Lathi Khela.
A total of 1000 Lathial, including apprentices of 50 Lathial groups from different districts across the country, participated in the camp.
A colourful rally paraded the main streets in the town.
The spirited Lathials danced along the street with drums. Several female Lathials also attended the camp.
On the closing day, certificates were distributed among the participants. Chief guest Professor Dr. Alauddin of Kushtia Islamic University handed over the certificates.
Journalist Abdur Rashid Choudhury also general secretary of Bangladesh Lathial Bahini presided over.
Among others, Mayor of Kushtia Municipality Anwar Ali, vice-president of Bangladesh Lathial Bahini Zohurul Haq Choudhury Ranju and general secretary Aadullah Al Mamun Tazu delivered speeches.
In his speech, Professor Dr. Alauddin said that Lathials and 'Lathi Khela' have a remarkable history. But the popularity of the art form is on the wane now.
He termed the Lathials as the "real golden men" of Bangladesh who were upholding a traditional art of Bangalees. Professor Alauddin emphasised the need to extend the practice of the dying art across the country.
The training was conducted by Abdulah Al Mamun Tazu, Mahfuzul Haq Kajol, Sahina Sultana Dizu and Manjurin Sabreen Choudhury Ruponti.
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