Boli Khela
Traditional form of wrestling
- 2 min read
- 5 chapters
Related on Lably
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Etymology
In the Chittagonian dialect, Boli means "wrestler" or "a powerful person," while Khela means "game" or "sport." Thus, Boli Khela literally translates to "game of the powerful person.".
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History
Boli Khela was introduced in the 19th century by Kader Boxo, a landlord and resident of Satkania Upazila in the Madarsha Union of Chittagong District. Starting in 1879, he collected rent from his tenants each year and organized a Boli Khela match. After his death, the 7th of Boishakh (the first month of the Bengali calendar) became known as "Mokkaro Boli Khela."
The sport was popularized in the early 20th century by Abdul Jabbar Saodagor of Chittagong. It gained widespread appeal after World War I but declined after World War II.
The event was not held in 2020 or 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. After two years, the 113th edition of the historic Jobbarer Boli Khela took place in Chattogram on 24 April 2022, followed by the 114th edition on 25 April 2023.
Participation
The arena is circular or square, measuring at least fourteen to twenty feet across. Instead of using modern mats, Boli wrestlers train and compete on dirt floors. Matches begin on a sandy wrestling ground. Each year, Boli Khela attracts new participants and fans, serving as a spectator sport for local residents and enthusiasts while also demonstrating traditional wrestling techniques to the public.
Format
Events are divided into tournament sessions. Each match typically lasts 25–30 minutes, but if both competitors agree, the final match may be extended by 10–15 minutes.
Competitions
Mokkar Boli Khela
Jobbarer Boli Khela