A vibrant and traditional boat race was hosted on the Buriganga River on Friday to celebrate the 416th anniversary of Dhaka as part of the month-long ‘Hridoye Dhaka 416’ festival, organized by the Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC).

The competitive event commenced in the afternoon, stretching from Kholamora Ghat to Wise Ghat, and featured six participating teams representing various regions across the country.

Thousands of spectators gathered along both banks of the river, creating an energetic atmosphere and revitalizing the capital's deep-rooted cultural heritage and traditions.

Minister for Road Transport and Highways Shaikh Rabiul Alam attended the inaugural ceremony as the chief guest, alongside Dhaka-7 constituency Member of Parliament Hamidur Rahman Hamid, who was present as the special guest.

The event was presided over by DSCC Administrator Md. Abdus Salam.

Massive crowds began assembling on both sides of the Buriganga starting from noon to watch the contest. Hundreds of private boats and passenger trawlers carrying families and local citizens also stationed themselves along the watercourse, transforming the occasion into a festive celebration of Dhaka's historical legacy and community spirit.