(BSS) - Arafat Rahman Koko Memorial Ha-Doo-Doo (Kabaddi) Tournament featuring 32 teams began last night at the premises of the Union Land Office in Chachuri union under Kalia upazila of Narail district.

The event, organized by Kadamtala Jubo Sangha, was inaugurated at 9:15 pm by Kalia upazila BNP Vice-President Md. Belayet Hossain as the chief guest.

Sportsman Md. Moshiar Rahman officiated the opening match as referee, while a large number of spectators gathered to enjoy the traditional rural game.

Teams from Chanpur and Ramsiddhi faced off in the inaugural match.

Speaking at the event, the chief guest said the tournament was organized in memory of Arafat Rahman Koko, a noted sports organizer and the younger son of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, founder of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia.

He emphasized that such traditional sporting events not only uphold rural culture but also help build a drug-free and sports-oriented young generation.

Chachuri union BNP President Md. Helal Molla presided over the opening ceremony, which was also attended by Narail Poura BNP Vice-President Khandaker Kiamul Hasan, Vice-President Md. Hashem Biswas, Organizing Secretary Ibadat Hussain Mina, Chachuri Union Parishad members Md. Anisur Rahman and Yunus Hossain Sukh, Chachuri Bazar Merchants Association General Secretary Abid Hasan Sabuj and Treasurer Khurshid Molla as special guests.