The exercise-based social organisation Bhorer Pakhi is set to launch its second inter-team football tournament on October 30, aiming to raise health awareness, promote physical and mental well-being and strengthen bonds among its members.
The tournament will feature 130 members divided into six teams.
The tournament trophy and jerseys were unveiled early Friday at Baharchhara Golchattar ground in Cox’s Bazar town. Advisers and members of the organisation’s current committee unveiled the trophy first and then the jerseys. Jerseys were later handed over to the captains of the six teams, who were also given captain’s armbands.
The teams have been named after flowers: Rajanigandha, Shapla, Hasnahena, Surjomukhi, Aparajita and Krishnachura.
Speaking at the event, Bhorer Pakhi president Advocate Mohammad Shafiqul Rahman said that although the organisation was formed around exercise, it also undertook various public welfare activities, including tree plantation and winter clothing distribution.
People from different professions and social backgrounds are members of the organisation, who take part in social activities alongside exercise and sports, he said.
With guidance from its members, standing committee, executive committee, and advisers, Bhorer Pakhi is expanding its recognition beyond the district and across the country, he said.
The organisation also helped maintain mental well-being alongside physical fitness, he added.
Referring to the organisation’s slogan, ‘Rise early, wake early, stay healthy together’, Shafiqul Rahman said, ‘Bhorer Pakhi — we are one, united and inseparable.’
Bhorer Pakhi general secretary Mizanur Rahman Russell said the trophy and jerseys were unveiled on Friday. The tournament will run for about one and a half months, with six teams participating, he said, and will conclude on October 31.
Bhorer Pakhi began on March 21, 2025, to raise health awareness and create a friendly social environment.
More than 100 members of the organisation currently take part in exercise and physical training at Baharchhara Golchattar ground every day from 6:00 am.
By Abdu Rashid Manik and Tareque Hasan
Photo: Tareque Hasan
