Grocer Oli new champ
Oli Hossain of Brahmanbaria became the new champion of the century-old Jabbarer Boli Khela after he beat local lad Iqbal in the 103rd edition of the event at the Laldighi maidan yesterday. After successfully winning the first two sessions of wrestling, Oli beat Iqbal in 4-minute duel to claim the vaunted title.
Oli said his father Haris member was also a professional wrestler. Oli took part in traditional wrestling competitions in his village and thana earlier.
“I have taken preparation for the last 8 years to participate in this famous event”, Oli said.
“My family members, especially my two kids will be very happy after hearing the news of my victory”, said an emotional Oli, who is grocer by profession.
Iqbal, who secured the runners-up trophy in the competition, said that he had expected to win the title.
Abdul Jabbar Smirti Kusti Pratijogita O Boishakhi Mela Parishad organised this year's with the slogan “let us rejoice the indomitable spirit of historical Boli Khela with great enthusiasm”, A total of 78 bolis (wrestlers) from all over the country took part in the competition. Thousands of enthusiastic visitors thronged at Laldighi Moidan to enjoy the duels from 2 pm.
The event started at 4pm in a festive mood with the music of 'Dabor' (one kind of folk drum) 'Sanai' (folk flute).
The match was separated in two sessions where 74 bolis participated in the first session and of them 37 bolis were awarded.
Four qualifiers took part in the second session. Known as Champion Boli, participants were -- Liakhat from Mirsarai, Iqbal from Raojan, Jashim from Comilla and Oli from Brahmanbaria. The second session was followed by the final, which Oli won eventually.
Chittagong City Corporation (CCC) Mayor M Manjur Alam inaugurated the programme while Channel i director and head of news Shaikh Siraj was present as chief guest.
Mobile telecom operators Banglalink sponsored the event and Channel i telecast the programme live.
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