Assam: Bodoland Indigenous games conclude with a call to preserve bodo heritage

The 14th Bodoland Indigenous Games, 2025, held at Medaghat playground in Baksa district, concluded on Sunday evening, marking another successful effort in preserving and promoting Bodo traditional sports. 

Organized by the Bodoland Indigenous Games Association (BIGA) in collaboration with its central and Baksa district committees, the mega event saw participation from over 450 athletes representing Kokrajhar, Chirang, Baksa, Tamulpur, Udalguri, Sonitpur, and Biswanath districts.

The competition, which began on March 21, featured seven traditional games—Khomlainai, Gila, Batha, Daria Pantha, Khikhor, Bwrai-Buri, and Dongfang Bukhunai—alongside demonstrations of other indigenous sports.

The closing ceremony was chaired by MLA and BIGA President Lawrence Islary, with local MLA Bhupen Boro, who also served as the Chairman of the Reception Committee, delivering the welcome address. BTC Executive Member (EM) Rakesh Brahma released the 3rd edition of "Thaoniyari Gelemu," the official mouthpiece of BIGA, during the event.

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In his address, BIGA President Lawrence Islary emphasized the association's mission of protecting, preserving, and promoting Bodo indigenous games, a vision initiated by the late Chanakya Brahma. He expressed concern over the gradual disappearance of many traditional Bodo games and reaffirmed BIGA’s commitment to ensuring their survival for future generations.

BTC EM Rakesh Brahma, in his speech, lauded BIGA’s dedication to preserving Bodo indigenous games. He assured that the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) government would provide all possible support to BIGA in its mission to safeguard and promote these cultural treasures.

The 14th Bodoland Indigenous Games served as a powerful reminder of the rich sporting heritage of the Bodos and the urgent need to protect it from extinction.