Elders in Naogaon preserve the traditional 'Lathi Khela' for years

Traditional stick games or Lathi Khela, once a source of entertainment during rural Bengal's festivals, have faded into obscurity with time. However, to preserve this cultural heritage, Naogaon has become a stronghold for this ancient sport.

A spirited display of this Lathi Khela occurred on a Friday afternoon in Gumardah, a remote village in Shailgachi Union, Sadar Upazila, Naogaon. Alongside the game, a thrilling rowing competition or Noukabaich unfolded on the waters of Gutar Bill. The Gumardah Mela Committee meticulously organized the event.

The ambience surrounding the Lathi Khela and Noukabaich was nothing short of festive, reviving the excitement of rural Bengal's inhabitants who had almost forgotten this near-extinct pastime. People hailing from various age groups and distant places flocked to witness the traditional sports. 

A group of skilled lathials (stick players) gathered in a local household's courtyard. There, the air resonated with the beats of drums, the rhythm of lathials, and the jingle of brass bells, setting the stage for an exhilarating spectacle. The lathials engaged in physical exercises and choreographed movements in sync with the beats, creating an exciting atmosphere. Following these warm-up exercises, the main event commenced.

Two participants energetically leapt and dodged, manoeuvring skillfully to fend off their opponent's strikes. Onlookers marvelled at the agility and finesse of the players, and their cheers echoed throughout the venue.

Ismail Hossain, a spectator, reminisced about witnessing Lathi Khela during his childhood and expressed his joy at witnessing the spectacle after a prolonged hiatus. He remarked, "In childhood, we enjoyed various village games, including Lathi Khela. Sadly, these games have become rare. Seeing the sport today after many years feels incredibly heartwarming."

Sumaiya Akhtar, a 10-year-old school student, experienced the excitement for the first time. She exclaimed, "This is my first time witnessing Lathi Khela, and I feel incredibly happy. I came here with my father to watch both the Lathi Khela and Noukabaich."

Abdur Rahman, a lathial, expressed his concern about the sport's declining popularity. He revealed, "I used to travel to different villages to play Lathi Khela, and the atmosphere was vibrant. Both players and spectators enjoyed the game. But the organization of this game became worse than before. We can only get chances to play once or twice a year and keep the tradition alive. If the government extends its support, this game can regain its former glory."

Moazzem Hossain, the local UP Chairman, acknowledged the fading presence of traditional Lathi Khela and Noukabaich in rural Bengal due to the passage of time. He emphasized the need for arrangements that reintroduce these sports to a wider audience. Reflecting on the enthusiastic response from the spectators, he pledged to continue organizing such events in the future and ensure the preservation of these cherished traditions.

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