Cumilla’s Shahjalal crowned as champion in Jabbar er Boli Khela

Shahjalal Boli emerged as the champion of the 114th edition of the popular and traditional wrestling competition of Chattagram ‘Jabbar er Boli Khela’ on Tuesday.

Shahjalal Boli from Cumilla defeated defending champion Tariqul Islam Jibon Boli from Chakaria upazila of Cumilla within 1 minute of the fight and snatched the crown of champion.

Shahjalal and Jibon Bali came face to face in the final of the 114th edition of Boli Khela held on Tuesday (April 25) afternoon.

Shahjalal Boli, a fruit seller in Cumilla, was defeated against Jibon Boli at last year's edition. He was previously crowned as champion in 2018 and 2019.

Earlier, last year's champion Tariqul Islam Jibon and Khagrachhari's Srijan Chakma faced each other in the first semi-final. Srijan Boli lost to Jibon Boli in a battle of about 11 minutes and 36 seconds. Srijan Chakma secured the third spot.

On the other hand, in the second semi-final, Anwara's Abdun Nur faced last year's runner-up Shahjalal Boli. The fight between the two lasted only 1 minute and 26 seconds. Abdun Nur Boli was defeated by Shahjalal Boli.

Chattogram City Corporation Mayor M Rezaul Karim Chowdhury organized the 114th edition of “Jabbar-er Boli Khela" at the historic Laldighi ground in the city at 4:45 pm. Sixty bolis participated this year.

'Boli Khela’ was introduced in the early 20th century by Abdul Jabbar Saodagar, a local trader. He wanted to prepare the youths to fight the British through the sport.

The traditional form of wrestling was named after Jabbar. The first competition was held in 1909.