Online Desk: The 115th edition of traditional ‘Jabbarer Boli Khela’ (wrestling competition) kicked off at historic Laldighi ground in the port city of Chattogram on Thursday afternoon amid the countrywide scorching heat.

Like every year, interested competitors submitted their names to the organising committee to participate in this year’s Boli Khela. Their names were taken till 11 am on Thursday.

For the competition, the stage of ‘Boli-Khela’ was built on 165 poles at Laldighi ground, said organisers.

Though the main event started today, a ‘Baishakhi Mela’ centring the competition started Tuesday. The crowd at the fair venue started to increase from Wednesday noon.

On the other hand, organising the Boli Khela amid the prevailing heat wave sparked criticism on social media. Although some are in favour of continuing the game others are suggesting its postponement.

Jahar Lal Hazari, president of the Abdul Jabbar Memory Wrestling Competition and Boishakhi Mela Committee, said the stage where the wrestling will be held was prepared and the fair will continue till the night of April 26.

The entire area of Laldighi Par from the city’s Anderkilla intersection has been decorated. Traders from different parts of the country thronged the fair venue with a variety of products along with local businessmen.

Renowned local merchant Abdul Jabbar Sawdagar of the city’s Badorpati area introduced wrestling in 1909 (Bangla 1316) with the aim to organise youths against British government.

However, the 111th and 112th editions of the game and fair were canceled due to the Covid-19 pandemic.