Assam traditional boat race draws thousands; Rajmata Express wins Champupara competition

Rajmata Express from Jaukatadia emerged as the winner of the ninth annual Champupara boat race competition held on the Kolohi River in Assam’s Kamrup district, drawing thousands of spectators to the traditional sporting event.

Organised by the Champupara Yuva Sangha under the Samaria Assembly constituency, the two-day competition featured 13 racing boats from different parts of Assam.

Sahina Express finished second, while Ma Haowa Express and Allah Bharosa Express secured the third and fourth positions, respectively.

The final was attended by Samaria MLA Rekibuddin Ahmed, who appreciated the organisers for their efforts to preserve Assam’s traditional boat racing culture.

Ahmed called for boat races to be organised not only across Assam but also at the Northeast and national levels to promote and preserve the traditional sport for future generations.

The champion team received a cash prize of Rs 77,777 and a trophy. The second-placed team was awarded Rs 55,555 and a trophy, while the third and fourth-placed teams received Rs 22,222 and Rs 11,111, respectively, along with trophies.

Thousands of people gathered along both banks of the Kolohi River to watch the races, turning the event into a major local cultural gathering.

Officials including Boko-Chaygaon Co-District Superintendent of Police Jankishore Gogoi, Goroimari Revenue Circle Officer Kashyabi Kashyap, and police officials from Boko, Goroimari and Jorshimuli attended the event.

Adequate security arrangements were made during the competition.

Traditional boat racing has long been associated with Assam’s riverine culture, and events such as the Champupara competition are organised to keep the sport and its cultural traditions alive.