Guwahati: The rhythmic beats of drums and the roar of the crowd marked the grand return of Assam’s traditional Nou Khel (boat race) at Champupara in Kamrup district on Friday. Thousands thronged the banks of the Kolohi River to witness the vibrant two-day competition, organised by the Champupara Regional Youth Association, bringing back a cherished cultural spectacle after years of hiatus.
More than nine teams from across Assam took part in the event, their boats slicing through the waters in fierce but festive competition. The organisers announced symbolic cash prizes of ₹1,11,111 for the champions and ₹77,777 for the runners-up, reflecting both respect for tradition and enthusiasm for cultural revival.
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Attending the event as chief guest, MLA Rekibuddin Ahmed paid an emotional tribute to the late singer Zubeen Garg, expressing deep sorrow over his untimely demise. He urged the state government to ensure a fair investigation into the case and reiterated the demand for a CBI probe.
“All those responsible must face stringent punishment. Transparency in the investigation is essential,” Ahmed said, addressing the gathering.
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While the oarsmen battled it out on the river, the atmosphere carried a deeper emotion — a fusion of pride, nostalgia, and collective grief. The revival of Nou Khel not only celebrated Assam’s rich heritage but also became a moment of unity, reflecting the people’s shared sense of loss and their determination to preserve their cultural spirit.
